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September 27 2024

Mangrove Mission: CFAS leads Coastal Clean-up in Celebration of 61st Fish Conservation Week

ISUFST Admin Activities, International Affairs

In celebration of the 61st Fish Conservation Week, faculty and students from the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (CFAS), BFAR scholars, the CFAS Student Council, and local counterparts gathered on September 26, 2024, in Sitio Lamintao, Talisay, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, for a mangrove planting and coastal clean-up activity. Collaborators from DJSMMC also participated in this joint effort to preserve coastal ecosystems and protect aquatic biodiversity.

The activity kicked off with a short lecture on mangrove planting and waste management, delivered by Mr. John Christian B. Salarza, a DFT student at ISUFST-SGS, and Ms. Vanica Boglosa, a MET student at ISUFST-SGS.

“𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁, 𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀,” Mr. Salarza emphasized. “𝗛𝗼𝘄𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿, 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁. 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲, 𝘄𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗶𝘁.”

The event highlighted the importance of mangroves in coastal protection, climate change mitigation, and fish habitat conservation. The hands-on approach, combined with knowledge sharing, empowered participants to contribute to environmental preservation while addressing the pressing issue of mangrove deforestation. | via Johnas Arellado / The Sea Treasure

Reymark Dubduban & Johnas Arellado /Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO

September 23 2024

ISUFST and DLSU collaborate for Cervical Cancer awareness in Iloilo

ISUFST Admin Gender and Development, International Affairs

In a joint effort, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) and De La Salle University (DLSU) conducted focus group discussions (FGDs) on cervical cancer awareness from September 13 to 18 in Iloilo City. The sessions took place in three barangays: Sto. Niño Sur, Arevalo, and Calumpang, Molo, and Balabago, Jaro, with 10 women participating in each community discussion.

The discussions were led by Prof. Michel Celeste, supported by Dr. Ronilo Aponte and Dr. Joana Paula Binas. The ISUFST R&D unit, facilitated the event, with contributions from R&D Director Jescel Boglosa Bito-onon, Eli Gene Tisuela and Charmane Nochete.

Four Richard T. Clark Fellows from the UK, US, and Philippines also attended, witnessing the valuable conversations. This initiative is part of the SGD localization project, showcasing a commitment to community health and education. (Jescel Bitoonon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

September 19 2024

En Route! ISUFST at EAIE 2024: Building Global Connections in Sciences Po Toulouse

ISUFST Admin Activities

ISUFST, through International Affairs and Linkages Director Dr. Jeanette Bayona, proudly represents the Philippines at the EAIE 2024 Conference, exploring new horizons in global education! Themed ‘En Route!’, the conference focuses on the power of innovation, sustainability, and digital technologies in shaping the future of global communities. On the first day, the Dr. Bayona and the rest of the members of the Philippine delegation toured Sciences Po Toulouse, met with the International Office to discuss collaboration opportunities, and explored the vibrant city of Toulouse. Stay tuned as we continue building global connections and advancing international education! (Jeanette Bayona/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

September 18 2024

ISUFST holds First-ever Ocular visit in Japan for Potential Student Internship

ISUFST Admin International Affairs

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), through Dumangas Campus College of Hospitality Management Dean Michelle Pahayculay, successfully completed a three-day Host Training Establishment (HTE) Ocular and Site Visit for the Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP) of its Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) students. This marks the first time of its kind that ISUFST has conducted such a visit in line with CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 10, series of 2023.

The visit took place at Goushigaisha Mifune-Ikeuno Mifune, Chita, Aichi, Japan, with Dr. Pahayculay warmly welcomed by Mr. Ota Matasaka, owner of Aichi International Education Center (AIEC), Mr. Iida Ideyuki, Hotel President, Ms. Mini Miso, Intern Coordinator, and Ms. Irish Detablan, AIEC Staff and Language Instructor. The center is now the newest international linkage partner for the university’s hospitality internship program.

ISUFST holds First-ever Ocular visit in Japan for Potential Student Internship

During the visit, a courtesy call was made to AIEC, where Dr. Pahayculay met with the principal, staff, and students to discuss potential collaboration opportunities. The primary objective of the ocular visit was to evaluate the facilities, operations, and overall environment of the training establishment to ensure it meets the educational and practical needs of ISUFST students. This evaluation is crucial in ensuring a safe and enriching internship experience abroad, which, if all preparations proceed smoothly, could be made available to BSHM students before the year ends.

This collaboration is expected to enhance the global competencies of ISUFST’s BSHM students in all campuses, and further strengthen the university’s commitment to offering high-quality international training opportunities. (Michelle Pahayculay/PAMMCO)

September 18 2024

‘Mangingisda Ako, Una ang Seguridad Ko’ Workshop Empowers Banate Bay Fisherfolk

ISUFST Admin International Affairs, Research

Over 100 fisherfolk from the Municipality of Banate took part in the extension program titled “Mangingisda Ako, Una ang Seguridad Ko”, held on September 13, 2024, at the Agriculture Building in Banate.

The training focused on safe navigation, collision regulations, and coastal resource management, aiming to enhance both the safety and environmental awareness of the local fishing community.

The initiative was led by Dr. Shiela Picpican, with Dr. Lou Magbanua and Dr. Quin Clarito serving as resource persons. They shared their expertise on maritime safety and sustainable coastal practices. They also stressed the importance of preventing illegal fishing activities and promoting sustainable fishing technologies.

In his opening message, Banate Mayor Peter Paul Gonzales highlighted the importance of the training for the livelihood and safety of fisherfolk.
“Programs like these are vital in safeguarding the lives of our fisherfolk while promoting the sustainable use of our coastal resources,” he said.

Vice Mayor Filemon Iran echoed his support, emphasizing the need for municipal ordinances on safe navigation and resource protection. He expressed hope for the establishment of long-term policies that would benefit the fishing community and ensure environmental stewardship.

Dr. Joana Paula B. Biñas, Director for Extension Services and Development at the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), reinforced the university’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
“Our research-driven and impactful extension projects are aligned with these global goals. This training is part of our efforts to empower fisherfolk and promote sustainable fishing practices,” she said.

The training covered essential topics, including navigation rules, the use of navigational aids, communication and lookout skills, and marine environmental protection. Fisherfolk were also educated on sustainable fishing practices to ensure the long-term preservation of Banate Bay’s resources.

This event marked the third phase of the “Mangingisda Ako” project, which aims to train all 957 registered fisherfolk in Banate. The project is expected to significantly improve the safety, productivity, and environmental awareness of the local fishing community.

(Joana Paula Binas / PAMMCO / Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion, MIS-PAMMCO)

September 17 2024

ISUFST Guidance Counselor leads Three Talks on Mental Well-being

ISUFST Admin International Affairs

Dr. Lydia Villanueva-Araneta, a guidance counselor at the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), recently delivered three separate talks addressing critical mental health issues, reinforcing the university’s commitment to community engagement, particularly in fostering psychological wellness among the youth.

Her most recent speaking engagement took place at St. Paul School, Barotac Nuevo, on September 13, 2024, where she was invited as the guest speaker during a symposium on Mental Health and Overall Well-being. The event was sponsored by SPSBN Batch 1984 in celebration of their 40th year since high school graduation. During the talk, Dr. Villanueva-Araneta discussed mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and suicide, underscoring the importance of raising awareness on these issues within the school setting. She expressed her gratitude for the warm response from the students, stating, “My heart is full with so much gratitude and joy. You all inspire me to continue doing what I love to do—raising awareness and reaching out to those in need.”

Earlier this year, Dr. Villanueva-Araneta also participated in two significant community-focused events. The first was a talk at St. Paul University Iloilo (SPUI), where she discussed school bullying and its impact on students’ mental health. She then took part in the 2024 Regional Youth Celebration, where she addressed anxiety and depression, aiming to equip young people with the tools to cope with these widespread issues.

To note, the guidance counselors and staff of ISUFST have been conducting similar mental health engagements for the past years upon requests of different institutions. This reflects the institution’s strong commitment to youth mental health and well-being. Through these engagements, ISUFST continues to prioritize not only academic excellence but also the psychological well-being of its students and the broader community. (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO /Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

September 15 2024

LINUMBANAN PATCHWORKS “PAGDIHON KAG PAGLARAGWAY” Interactive Storybook Writing and Storybook Illustration Seminar Workshop

ISUFST Admin Extension

On September 14, 2024, the LINUMBANAN (PATCHWORKS “PAGDIHON KAG PAGLARAGWAY” Interactive Storybook Writing and Storybook Illustration Seminar Workshop was held at the ISUFST Main Campus-Tiwi Site. The event focused on enhancing literacy and numeracy through interactive storybook writing and illustration and included COED students and teachers from Barotac Nuevo. #TheCityThatReads

September 13 2024

ISUFST and DepEd Schools Division Office of Passi City strengthen Suicide Prevention Workshop

ISUFST Admin International Affairs

In a significant step toward promoting mental wellness and suicide prevention, the DepEd Schools Division Office (SDO) of Passi City partnered with the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) to conduct a Suicide Prevention Seminar-Workshop. Held yesterday, September 12, 2024, at the Nine Suite Business Hotel in Passi City, the seminar was part of the Katatagan Program, which champions mental health advocacy across the city’s schools. The initiative is aligned with ISUFST’s commitment to community involvement and regional development, while supporting the mental health thrust of Cong. Ferjenil Biron, a member of the university’s Board of Regents.

Registered guidance counselor Dr. Herman Lagon, ISUFST’s Director of Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications Office (PAMMCO), was the resource speaker and facilitator. His presentation, titled “Suicide Prevention: Strengthening Mental Health in Schools,” focused on equipping educators with the necessary tools to identify and address suicide risk factors among students. Dr. Lagon emphasized the importance of early intervention, defining key terms like suicide ideation, attempt, and postvention, and underscoring the value of a supportive school environment. “We must change the narrative on suicide by fostering open conversations and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health,” Lagon said during his talk, which extended beyond the scheduled time due to the relevance and interest of the audience.

Dr. Ma. Roselyn Palcat, Passi City Schools Division Superintendent, hailed the collaboration, stating, “The Katatagan Program is already integrated into our schools’ guidance programs, using modules that have proven effective in managing mental wellness among our learners.” She further stressed the success of their division’s initiatives, sharing that their Katatagan story had been featured across Panay and Guimaras and would soon be shared with divisions in Negros Occidental.

The seminar was also supported by Atty. Fevi Fanco, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, who remarked, “We must take care of ourselves so that we can take care of others, becoming more effective instruments of change.” University President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., who was formerly a DepEd Superintendent himself, also reaffirmed ISUFST’s commitment to DepEd Passi City, stating, “This partnership aligns with ISUFST’s thrust for community involvement and mental wellness, reinforcing our shared mission to promote mental health and prevent suicide in our schools and communities.”

Participants, including elementary and high school heads, curriculum personnel, and operations staff, actively engaged in identifying warning signs of suicidal behavior and practiced crisis intervention approaches through case scenarios and role-playing exercises. The highlight of the event are the mini workshops and the lively sharing of insights in the plenary facilitated in by the resource speaker.

After the six-hour seminar-workshop on suicide prevention and mental wellness, the participants proceeded with an in-depth review on the Rapid HEEEADSSS (Home, Education, Employment, Eating, Activities, Drug Use, Sexuality, Suicide, Safety, and Spirituality) Assessment, led by Grace Farah Panes, Nurse II at SDO Passi City.

Given the seminar’s impact and success, both ISUFST and DepEd Passi City plan to hold more mental wellness activities in the future, continuing their joint efforts to promote mental health advocacy and prevent suicide within the education sector. (Photos by Dayle Pabiona and Nescel Panes/PAMMCO /Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

September 11 2024

Iloilo Patients Forum features Strengthening Universal Health Care (UHC) Localization and Cancer Care in Iloilo City

ISUFST Admin Activities

Iloilo City, September 10, 2024—The ongoing Iloilo Patients Forum, focused on “Strengthening Universal Health Care (UHC) Localization and Cancer Care in Iloilo City,” is currently taking place at Park Inn by Radisson Hotel, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. The forum, aligned with the National Wellness Month, brings together stakeholders in health and governance to discuss critical initiatives in improving healthcare access, with a particular focus on cancer care and UHC localization in Iloilo City.

Organized by De La Salle University in partnership with the Richard T. Clark Fellowship for Global Health, the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO), Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), and the Iloilo City Health Office, the event serves as a platform for dialogue between healthcare professionals, government officials, and patient groups.

Fatima Lorenzo, founder of PAPO, kicked off the forum by highlighting the power of collective efforts in addressing healthcare challenges. “There is strength in numbers,” she said, as she discussed PAPO’s mission to unify patient organizations under one voice to empower Filipino patients to advocate for their rights and be productive members of society.

Jess Lorenzo, Senior Fellow at De La Salle University’s Jesse M. Robredo Institute of Governance, emphasized the importance of addressing social inequalities in healthcare through community-based awareness programs. He underscored the need for ground-level conversations and community development to bridge healthcare gaps.

Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., President of ISUFST, reiterated the institution’s commitment to supporting public health initiatives. He stated that ISUFST actively contributes to good health and well-being through relevant research and extension services that directly benefit the community.

Dr. Lalit Chopra, a medical doctor and MSD Richard T. Clark Fellow, spoke about the ongoing battle against cancer, describing it as a challenging issue that requires long-term sustainable solutions. Dr. Chopra expressed hope in finding ways to overcome barriers in cancer care through patient-centered approaches, stressing the importance to listening to patents’ narratives and journeys.

Dr. Luzviminda Jamandre, program head for cervical cancer at the Iloilo City Health Office, revealed that cancer ranks as the third leading cause of death in Iloilo City. With this, she emphasized that local district health centers, now all accredited by PhilHealth, are offering primary healthcare services, including cancer screenings, making healthcare more accessible to underserved communities.

PhilHealth representatives, including Harren Christopher Fegarido and Dr. Athena Lauron, discussed the benefits of Universal Health Care. They highlighted the importance of UHC in ensuring that every Filipino, especially those in marginalized sectors, receives immediate access to quality healthcare services, including preventive, promotive, curative, and palliative care.

The forum, part of a series of initiatives led by DLSU, continues to gather momentum, serving as a platform for exploring sustainable healthcare solutions and reinforcing Iloilo City’s commitment to improving access to essential healthcare services, particularly in cancer care, for its residents. (Herman M. Lagon/PAMMCO /Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

September 10 2024

ISUFST holds inception meet with DOST-PCAARRD for groundbreaking Php5M-worth Pearl Genes Project

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) hosted the inception meeting for its pioneering research project titled “Population Genetics and Molecular Characterization of Pearl and Other Commercially Important Oysters Using Multigene DNA Analysis” this Monday, September 9, 2024, at the Conference Room of the ISUFST Main Campus-Tiwi Site, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo. The project, funded by the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), is a Php5-million, two-year initiative aimed at enhancing the understanding of commercially valuable oyster species and contributing to the sustainability of the blue economy.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of innovation in research, particularly in projects like this that have direct implications for both the local community and the national economy. “This project, led by Dr. Mary Mar Payne, places ISUFST at the forefront of marine science research. Sterling initiatives like this highlight the significance of faculty-driven innovations that have a tangible impact on the environment and the livelihood of our communities,” Dr. Siason said. He also reminded the team to diligently follow the project’s timelines to ensure timely and successful completion.

The project will focus on the population genetics and molecular characterization of various oyster species, including pearl, winged, tree, hammer, windowpane, and thorny oysters. Using multigene DNA analysis, it aims to identify and classify these species, assess genetic diversity, and develop data-driven strategies for sustainable management. Dr. Payne, the project leader, stressed the objectives and methodologies, explaining the vital role oysters play not just as a food source and in shell craft industries, but also in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems as biofilters and reef builders.

“Our goal is to provide a comprehensive genetic framework that will serve as the foundation for sustainable aquaculture practices. “This project holds great potential to enhance oyster farming, most particularly for pearl production, while promoting conservation efforts and contributing significantly to the blue economy,” Dr. Payne remarked during the meeting.

For her part, Dr. Mari-Ann Acedera, Director of the Marine Resource Research Division (MRRD) of DOST-PCAARRD, provided an in-depth rationale for the partnership. “This project represents a strategic collaboration between ISUFST and PCAARRD to address gaps in species diversity and distribution, ensuring the conservation and sustainable management of oyster populations,” Dr. Acedera said. The project’s outcomes are expected to benefit not only the academic and scientific community but also local oyster farmers and industries.

To note, the Pearl Genes Project is an offshoot of ISUFST’s “BangKa sa KaBuHi Ta” umbrella research thrust, which represents its flagship products—Bangrus, Kasag, Kanding, Bulgan, Hipon, and Talaba—and reflects the university’s role as the “boat of our lives.” This initiative drives innovation and sustainable resource management, with projects like the Pearl Project contributing to local economic growth.

Meanwhile, Ms. Adela Corpuz, Supervising Science Research Specialist of MRRD-PCAARRD, discussed the technical and financial monitoring guidelines essential for maintaining the project’s momentum. “Effective monitoring is crucial for ensuring that the project’s goals are met efficiently and that resources are used responsibly,” Ms. Corpuz noted.

With the growing importance of the blue economy in the country, this research project aims to enhance aquaculture practices by providing insights into species identification, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic relationships. The outcomes will not only contribute to sustainable aquaculture but also promote responsible trade practices and empower local communities involved in the oyster industry.

The inception meeting was attended by key stakeholders from both DOST-PCAARRD and ISUFST, including administrators, researchers, faculty, and project staff, mostly from the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (CFAS), th flagship program of the university. The hybrid format of the meeting also enabled other stakeholders, including community partners and industry representatives, to participate remotely. The collective presence of these stakeholders underscored the shared commitment to ensuring the success of the project. Dr. Payne closed the meeting with a reminder of the project’s far-reaching potential: “This initiative is more than just research—it is a collaborative effort that will shape the future of aquaculture and marine sustainability in our region and beyond.” (Text by Herman Lagon/Photos by Mary Mar Payne and Lagon/PAMMCO)