Activities

October 7 2025

BS Fisheries Program Achieves AACCUP Level IV Re-Accreditation

The Bachelor of Science in Fisheries (BSF) Program of the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (CFAS) has successfully earned 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗜𝗩 𝗥𝗲-𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 (𝗔𝗔𝗖𝗖𝗨𝗣), 𝗜𝗻𝗰., with an outstanding overall rating of 4.7 out of 5.0.

This achievement reflects the program’s unwavering commitment to the highest standards of academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement, the hallmarks of a globally competitive fisheries institution. It also highlights the dedication of CFAS faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders in advancing quality education and sustainable practices in the field.

As CFAS continues its journey toward becoming a Center of Excellence in Fisheries, this milestone reinforces our collective commitment to quality assurance, innovation, and sustainability in fisheries and aquatic sciences.

Proudly, we uphold our mantra—
We Learn. We Sustain.

To more and beyond, CFAS!

(by JCB Salarza and CJC Villanueva

October 7 2025

ISUFST, Iloilo Governor Discuss Land Expansion for Proposed College of Nursing

ISUFST Admin Activities

ISUFST leaders, led by President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., met with Iloilo Gov. Arthur R. Defensor Jr. and Vice Governor Nathalie Ann F. Debuque at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol on October 6, 2025, to discuss expanding ISUFST’s Main Campus-Poblacion Site to establish a College of Nursing. Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Dennis Ventilacion provided guidance as the parties map out terms, timelines, and funding considerations to move the project toward formal approval. This expansion aims to create closer, better-equipped facilities for nursing education and other courses, benefiting students, families, and the broader healthcare community. (RJ Patosa/PAMMCO)

July 22 2025

ISUFST Charts Global Path with Heart for Local Communities

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension

With bold aspirations and grounded hearts, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) opened a two-day Strategic Planning Workshop on Internationalization on July 21, 2025, at the ICT TechnoHub in ISUFST Main Campus-Poblacion Site, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo. The initiative aims to craft a five-year roadmap to guide the university’s global engagements—while staying true to its mission to serve the people of Iloilo, especially those at the margins.

Bringing together deans, program heads, faculty, internationalization staff, directors, and university administrators, the workshop is led by Dr. Gaudencio C. Petalcorin Jr., Professor VI and Global Reputation Focal Person of Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT). A seasoned academic leader and CHED Internationalization Committee member, Petalcorin brings years of experience in integrating global standards into local institutions.

“We already have what it takes to go global,” Petalcorin said. “But for the plan to work—not just on paper but in people’s lives—our hearts must be in it. Good ideas need effective packaging to make an impact.”

The first day featured aspiration-setting and hands-on workshops per academic program. Each team identified its strategic goals, action points, and success indicators for the next five years. The following morning, Petalcorin and special guest Prof. Eddie Nuque from De La Salle University presented the outputs.

Nuque emphasized the importance of staying mission-focused amid the university’s expanding international reach. “Yes, we must engage the world. But we should never forget that our core mission is to serve the people of Iloilo—especially the marginalized communities who rely on education for opportunity,” he said. “Internationalization should be a tool to deepen—not distract from—our local impact.”

Dr. Jeanette Bayona, Director of International Affairs and Linkages, expressed appreciation for the collaborative work of the participants. “We will integrate all your outputs and present it to you for feedbacking. Looking forward to an impactful Strategic Internationalization Plan,” she said.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr. welcomed the dialogue with optimism. “We are honored by Dr. Petalcorin’s presence and insights. We hope that the outputs of this planning session will truly reflect our commitment to the VMG and help us chart a direction anchored in both global quality and local relevance.”

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga echoed this call, urging the participants to treat the moment as more than a compliance exercise. “Let’s take advantage of this opportunity to dream beyond boundaries but serve within our means,” she said.

Petalcorin, reflecting on the exchange of ideas, expressed his appreciation: “What I saw here wasn’t just planning—it was listening. I appreciate the presence, the questions, the openness. This isn’t about creating a document to please others; it’s about shaping a story that makes sense to you and the people you serve.”

Among the strategic directions discussed were the offering of global language courses with embedded cultural learning, and building partnerships for virtual classes, research and social involvement collaboration, student internship, and international student-faculty exchanges.

Once finalized, the internationalization roadmap will be presented to the Academic and Administrative Councils and eventually endorsed to the Board of Regents for approval in the third quarter of the academic year.

As the country’s only state university dedicated to fisheries science and technology, ISUFST continues to rise as a purpose-driven institution. Recent recognitions—including CHED’s Outstanding Board Performance Award and honors in internationalization and Indigenous Peoples Education—show the university’s unique ability to blend tradition and transformation.

“This is not just about global visibility,” Petalcorin reminded the crowd. “It’s about visibility with purpose—being seen because we’re doing something that matters.” (Ricky Ramos/Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

July 21 2025

ISUFST Empowers Non-Teaching Staff Through G.R.I.T. for Service Training-Retreat

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, Gender and Development, International Affairs, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) successfully concluded its three-day training and reorientation program titled “GRIT for Service 2025: A Training-Retreat Toward an Ethical, Resilient, and People-Centered Work Culture” held July 16-18, 2025. at Almadria Highland Resort in Talisay City, Negros Occidental. The retreat gathered 237 non-teaching staff, directors, faculty with administrative functions, and top administrators from ISUFST’s five campuses for a shared moment of pause—to reflect, realign, and renew their commitment to public service.

Organized by the Human Resource Management Office with the GAD Office, the training-retreat became more than just a professional reset. At the values-laden integration workshop, ISUFST faculty and staff explored how the university’s vision, mission, mandate, and guiding principles could be lived out through daily care and service. The sessions were framed around SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work), and SDG 16 (Strong Institutions), helping participants anchor their actions in the GRIT values—Growth, Resilience, Integrity, and Teamwork—that define the university.

“This retreat reflects what ISUFST truly stands for,” said University President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. “We don’t just aim to deliver quality service—we build a community that serves with humility, passion, integrity, and purpose. And our non-teaching staff are at the heart of that mission.”

Day 1 began with an inspiring talk from Fr. Joel Rojo-Eslabra, chaplain of WVSU Medical Center, who invited participants to reconnect with their “why” through ikigai, the Japanese concept of purpose. “Service begins when we rediscover our reason for showing up each day,” he said. His talk continued after lunch, blending stories, clips, and quiet moments that invited participants to look inward. Fr. Eslabra reminded everyone that true service begins not with titles, but with the simple decision to care, to listen, and to lead with heart.

By mid-afternoon, energy and laughter filled the room as Mr. Al Ian Barcelona, CEO-President of AIB Training and Consultancy Corporation, challenged the group to reframe their roles with joy and passion during his WAVE session: Works Acceleration and Value Empowerment. Later that evening, new staff members introduced themselves to the wider community through lively talent presentations—an icebreaker that quickly turned into a celebration of shared joy, creativity, and campus pride.

Mr. Barcelona continued his session in Day 2, weaving in themes of personal passion, institutional alignment, and values-driven performance.

Also on that same day, July 17, Dr. Kharlie Joehn Hautea, the university physician, emphasized the importance of health, wellness, and safety in the workplace, reminding staff that good service begins with well-being.

Later in the day, ISUFST Legal Officer Atty. Joey Mondero revisited Republic Act No. 6713, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. His session, and the engaging Q&A thereafter, reinforced that integrity, transparency, and accountability are not just legal mandates—they are daily practices that sustain public trust.

The second night brought moments of joy and unity during the Search for Mr. and Miss Non-Teaching Staff 2025. Mary Floren Arguez and Eli Gene Tisuela, both from the Tiwi Campus, were crowned titleholders. The event, though lighthearted, echoed the retreat’s spirit of confidence, inclusivity, and campus pride. Participants described it as “a celebration of the quiet strength behind every desk and department.”

The final day, July 18, featured CHMSU’s Director of Student Affairs and Services, Dr. Ma. Victoria Violanda, who ended the training retreat on a powerful note about working with purpose. She talked about the courage it takes to stay committed, the strength in collaboration, and the wisdom in being a lifelong learner.

Meanwhile, program lead Supervising Administrative Officer (SAO) Alma P. Betito also noted that: “For us, this retreat is a heart-check, it is a reminder of why we do what we do.” She added: “Our non-teaching staff are vital to the university’s heartbeat. Empowering them means enriching our entire system of service.”

Dr. Lenirose Mondero, GAD Director, affirmed the deeper purpose behind the activity: “When we build an inclusive, reflective workplace, we don’t just boost morale—we strengthen the very foundation of the service we give to students and communities. It’s about making each person feel seen, valued, and driven by purpose.”

With its blend of knowledge sessions, honest reflections, and shared celebrations, GRIT for Service 2025 reaffirms ISUFST’s mission to nurture kind, ethical, and resilient public servants. It also supports the university’s goal to align human resource development with institutional performance and to recognize excellence through the PRAISE incentive system.

As the country’s first and only state university dedicated to fisheries science and technology, ISUFST continues to lead with heart—cultivating a workplace where compassion, purpose, and public service grow hand in hand. (Herman Lagon / Ricky Ramos / Edeline Joy Brito / PAMMCO)

July 10 2025

ISUFST Leadership Pays Courtesy Visit to CHED Commissioner Canapi

ISUFST Admin Activities

On July 10, 2025, the ISUFST team led by University President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr. paid a courtesy visit to Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Dr. Marita R. Canapi, who also serves as Chairperson of the ISUFST Board of Regents.

Dr. Canapi, a distinguished figure in Philippine higher education, warmly welcomed the delegation. With decades of leadership in academic governance, research, and policy, she continues to be a guiding force in shaping institutional excellence. Prior to her appointment as CHED Commissioner, she served as President of the University of Rizal System, and held key academic leadership roles at both the University of Makati and Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina. (RJ Patosa/PAMMCO)

July 8 2025

ISUFST to Endorse BSMT Program Revival to BOR for AY 2026–2027

ISUFST Admin Activities

In a move that hopes to bring back one of its most storied programs, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Academic and Administrative Councils have officially endorsed the reopening of its Bachelor of Science in Maritime Transportation (BSMT) course. The formal and unanimous recommendation came during a Special Academic Council Meeting held at the Dingle Campus’ Knowledge Management Hub on Monday, July 7, 2025. Alongside the BSMT, the university also greenlit proposals for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Doctor in Information Technology (DIT), all of which are now set for final review by the Board of Regents ahead of Academic Year 2025–2026.

The return of the BSMT program reflects ISUFST’s renewed commitment to its maritime roots, backed by strong academic and administrative support. To help align the program with global standards, an ISUFST BSMT Program team will conduct a benchmarking visit to the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS) in Pasay City on July 10–11, 2025—building on an earlier visit to the University of Antique last June 20, 2025.

“This is more than a revival—it’s a return to one of our foundational strengths as a university deeply rooted in coastal and maritime communities,” said ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. “We are not merely offering a course; we are reigniting a legacy that has lifted families and changed lives.”

The BSMT program once served as the university’s flagship course under its former identity as the Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCOF). In Academic Year 2012–2013, it accounted for 76% of total campus enrollment, with a strong track record in national board exams. From 2015 to 2017, ISCOF produced two topnotchers and posted passing rates of 91% in Master Mariner, 87% in Chief Mate, and 87% in Officer-in-Charge for Navigational Watch assessments.

The current revival includes plans to rehabilitate the old library into simulation classrooms, with a new Maritime Building slated for construction. Equipment procurement, including a Full Mission Bridge Simulator, is underway. Maritime-specific library materials are being acquired, and a hiring plan is in motion to onboard qualified, Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW)-compliant faculty members.

Dr. Christine Diocos, Director of the Quality Assurance and Management Center, led the June 2025 cross-visit to the University of Antique’s BSMT program, which served as an early benchmarking effort. “Our goal is to ensure that the program will be globally relevant and locally responsive from day one,” Diocos emphasized. The BSMT Team is composed of nine (9) faculty members, administrators, and staff form ISUFST, most of which come from the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (CFAS).

Geographically, ISUFST’s location along Iloilo’s coastal belt strengthens its case. The Tiwi site in Barotac Nuevo, where the BSMT will be housed, is home to numerous seafaring families, many of whom have sent children into maritime careers that provided economic mobility. Local success stories from former ISCOF graduates continue to inspire interest in the program, especially among underprivileged but capable youth.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga noted that “bringing back BSMT not only addresses the maritime workforce demand but also expands ISUFST’s mission of accessible and inclusive education for coastal communities.” She added that the university is also working to ensure the program meets the standards of Joint CHED-MARINA Memorandum Circular No. 2, s. 2023.

The BSMT revival joins a broader set of academic reforms unanimously approved for endorsement during the July 7 Academic Council and Administrative Council meetings, including the BSN and DIT programs, the ISUFST Brand Book, and a revised institutional mandate and mission—all crafted to support the university’s alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and CHED’s call for faculty strengthening, innovation, and social impact. Application for admission is expected to open by latter part of AY 2025–2026, pending CHED approval.

Support from Iloilo 4th District Representative Ferjenel Biron has been instrumental. A long-time champion of ISUFST, Rep. Biron has committed to helping fund the conversion of the Tiwi library into a Maritime Building, as well as the relocation of library services to the future P22.5-million University Learning Center—an adjacent project also backed by Biron.

“This is the kind of partnership that makes change possible,” said Dr. Siason. “When institutional vision meets public service, we create something that benefits not just our students but entire communities.”

Pending BOR, and eventually CHED, approval, the BSMT program will open with one 40-student class in AY 2026–2027. Recruitment will be highly selective, competitive, and merit-based, ensuring the first cohort meets the rigor of maritime education and the demands of the industry.

With a proud history in maritime education, ISUFST remains the only state university in Iloilo uniquely positioned to train the country’s future seafarers. Bringing back the BSMT program is a commitment not just to its past but to the promise of building a world-class maritime workforce rooted in local strength and global vision. (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

July 4 2025

ISUFST Consults PNA President for the Launching of BS Nursing Degree in 2026

ISUFST Admin Activities

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) has taken its first major step toward launching a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at its Main Campus–Poblacion Site in Barotac Nuevo by holding an initial consultation meeting today, July 2, 2025, with Dr. Rosana Grace Belo-Delariarte, a prominent educator and newly elected National President of the Philippine Nurses Association (PNA).

The consultation with ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga, and other key university officials, explored the academic, logistical, and regulatory requirements for opening the proposed BSN program by the first semester of Academic Year 2026–2027. Application for admission is expected to open by latter part of AY 2025–2026, pending CHED approval.

“This is more than a campaign promise—it is a commitment to community-responsive education,” said Dr. Siason, noting that both he and Iloilo 4th District Representative Ferjenel Biron had earlier expressed the intent to open a nursing program at ISUFST. “We are determined to ensure that our future nursing students receive quality, values-driven education grounded in our university’s core mission and aligned with regional health needs.”

The proposed BSN program is envisioned to complement ISUFST’s existing program offerings and to become the first nursing degree program in northern Iloilo offered outside Iloilo City. Alongside BSN, the university is also processing the proposed Bachelor of Science in Maritime Transportation (BSMT) program for its Tiwi campus in Barotac Nuevo, also targeted to begin by AY 2026–2027.

Dr. Belo-Delariarte, who hails from Barotac Nuevo and currently serves as PNA Region VI Governor on top of being PNA national chief, lauded ISUFST’s initiative and provided expert input on aligning the program with national nursing standards. “There is a strong need for accessible and community-based nursing education, especially in rural and underserved areas,” she emphasized. “ISUFST is in a strategic position to fill that gap.” She added, “It brings me great pride as a Barotacnon to witness this bold move from ISUFST. Nursing is not just a career—it is a commitment to life, and offering it here means empowering our own communities to rise through care and competence.”

In preparation for the program rollout, ISUFST is eyeing formal partnerships with major hospitals in the province for clinical training and Related Learning Experiences (RLE). These include the Don Jose S. Monfort Medical Center (DJSMMC), located just a block away from the main campus, as well as the Iloilo Provincial Hospital in Pototan, Ramon D. Duremdes District Hospital in Dumangas, and Asia Pacific Medical Center–Iloilo.

A larger stakeholder consultation is scheduled for July 15, 2025, to help establish the Vision, Goals, Mission, and Objectives (VGMO) of the BSN program. This meeting will include local government officials, barangay representatives, health workers, alumni, student leaders, and parents—signaling ISUFST’s commitment to participatory planning and community ownership.

“We want this program to be rooted in local realities and designed with long-term sustainability and relevance,” said Dr. Belga, who will lead the coordination of benchmarking visits, facility enhancements, and faculty recruitment. “Our preparation includes not just CHED compliance but also ensuring we uphold ISUFST’s trademark of excellence in instruction, extension, research, and innovation.”

The university aims to start with one section each for both BSN and BSMT, ensuring manageable class sizes and focused instruction during the initial rollout phase. As with all CHED-regulated health science programs, BSN will require compliance with specific faculty credentials, laboratory facilities, simulation equipment, and clinical affiliation standards. Prospective students will also undergo rigorous academic screening and physical and mental health evaluations prior to admission.

The application for CHED program recognition is already underway, with ISUFST officials confident that the institution’s strong track record of quality assurance, including its ISO 9001:2015 certification and AACCUP accreditations, will bolster its application.

Founded in 1957 and designated as the country’s first and only state university for fisheries, ISUFST has evolved into a comprehensive institution with 27 undergraduate and 16 graduate programs across five campuses with 8,500 students and 280 faculty members, half of whom hold PhD degrees in their respective fields. The addition of BSN and BSMT will mark a significant expansion of its academic footprint into health and maritime sciences—sectors identified by the Philippine government as critical to national development.

With its recent awards from CHED for excellence in Indigenous Peoples Education, community extension, and internationalization, ISUFST continues to embody its commitment to inclusive, accessible, and socially relevant education aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Our legacy is not only in producing competent professionals but in shaping servant-leaders who will bring health, hope, and humanity to the communities they serve,” Dr. Siason added.

Updates on the admission process, curriculum, and program partnerships will be announced in the coming months through ISUFST’s official channels. (Photos by Herman Lagon and Rholan Mark Basaygan/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

June 20 2025

CPD, DOH, ISUFST Launch AHlam Na! 3.0 to Boost Adolescent Health Literacy

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, Gender and Development

At the core of AHlam Na! 3.0 is a simple yet powerful idea: meet young people where they are online and equip them with the knowledge to make informed choices about their health and well-being.

Launched this Friday morning, June 20, by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Region VI, together with the Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) and the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), the event brought together a diverse group of local leaders, educators, health professionals, and media partners at Sotogrande Hotel, Green Meadows Avenue in Jaro, Iloilo City. Their shared mission? To help adolescents access trustworthy, youth-friendly health information in ways that make sense to them.

First introduced in 2018, AHlam Na!—short for Adolescent Health Literacy Advocacy and Mobilization—has steadily evolved into more than just an app. For many young Filipinos, it has become a digital ally in understanding sensitive but vital topics like reproductive health, mental wellness, nutrition, and gender sensitivity.

In his keynote address, CPD Region VI Director Harold Alfred Marshall emphasized the urgency of addressing adolescent pregnancy and misinformation through modern platforms. “Adolescents are not just our future—they are very much part of our present,” Marshall said. “We lose P33 billion annually due to adolescent pregnancy. That’s not just a financial loss—it’s a loss of dreams, aspirations, and opportunities.”

Citing the Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS), Marshall relayed that while there are many adolescents who lack reliable information sources for their reproductive and sexual health, most already have smartphones and internet access. “Their screen is their space, and it’s time we show up in it,” he added, noting that an app such as AHlam Na! 3.0 can capture youth where they are—online.

Dr. Joan Belga, Vice President for Academic Affairs of ISUFST, expressed pride in the university’s role in co-developing the application. “This project reflects our commitment to transform lives not just through formal instruction but also through meaningful digital innovations,” Belga said. She also highlighted the university’s ongoing mission to reach underserved communities. “Let us continue to work together—schools, communities, and government agencies—to ensure that no young person is left behind.”

AHlam Na! 3.0 can be accessed through https://ahlam-na-test.web.app/. It offers new features such as up-to-date information on adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH), an integrated map of adolescent-friendly health facilities in Western Visayas, and tools for data analytics to support healthcare providers. Once downloaded, the app works even without internet—making it easier to use anytime, anywhere. It also features interactive games that turn often awkward or avoided health topics into something more engaging, relatable, and Gen Z-friendly.

Medical Officer IV Dr. Jem Laurie Borja of Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) affirmed the Department’s commitment to this initiative. “This app is not just a digital resource—it’s a statement that we prioritize young people’s right to accurate health information and access to services,” Borja said. Speaking on behalf of Regional Director Dr. Annabelle Yumang, she reiterated that adolescent well-being must remain central in health planning.

The application’s relaunch is timely, with Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFSS) 2021 data showing that 39% of males and 44% of females aged 15–24 lack any material sources of sex-related information. The mobile app, a of its kind in the country, aims to bridge this gap by providing easy-to-navigate content that reflects the realities and needs of Filipino adolescents.

A key figure behind the application, ISUFST professor Sol Baldevarona, was also recognized for her leadership in its development. Belga conveyed ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr.’s gratitude, stressing that “ISUFST is honored by the trust placed in it by CPD and DOH.”

The launch featured a short AVP on AHlam Na! 3.0 and an open forum where media and community partners voiced their support. The message was clear: improving teen health takes both tech and teamwork.

Participants hoped the app would help young people feel safer asking questions—whether in classrooms, barangays, or at home. Behind it is a bigger goal: supporting national and global efforts to make health, education, and equality more accessible to all.

As CPD’s Marshall concluded, “Let’s make digital health access a standard, not a privilege.” (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO) (Photos from Philippine Information Agency Western Visayas)

June 18 2025

ISUFST Library Receives Donation of Valuable Books

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension

Tiwi, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo — The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Library has received a significant donation of academic books from renowned author and educator, Dr. Geronimo L. Gregorio, through the initiative of our Research and Development Director, Dr. Jescel B. Bito-onon.

This generous contribution is a powerful action in support to the academic and research pursuits of both faculty and students. The donated learning materials cover a range of topics in agricultural science, research methodology and academic writing—key areas of study at ISUFST.

The following books were included in the donation:

Basic Soil Science and Soil Fertility Management – 19 copies

Crop Science and Technology – 10 copies

Research in the Biological Science, Principles, Methods and Statistics – 8 copies

Socio-Educational Research – 6 copies

Writing Quality Theses and Dissertations – 19 copies

All five titles were authored by Dr. Gregorio, whose extensive work in agricultural sciences and research has guided numerous students and professionals across in the country.

ISUFST Main Campus- Tiwi Site Library headed by Ma’am Jossa Blancada expresses its gratitude to Dr. Gregorio for his valuable donation and to Dr. Jescel B. Bito-onon for making this generous act possible. These learning resources are expected to contribute significantly in enhancing our academic environment and promoting a culture of research excellence among students and faculty alike.

Books that are related to Agriculture, along with some General Education titles, were also transmitted to ISUFST Dingle and San Enrique Campuses, being the university’s satellite campuses that offer agriculture programs to better serve the needs of their students and faculty.

Students and faculty are encouraged to make use of these new materials, which are now available at the ISUFST Library, Tiwi Site, and its satellite campuses.

(𝑱𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝑬𝒖𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒆 𝑬. 𝑺𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒛𝒂𝒓/𝑷𝑨𝑴𝑴𝑪𝑶)

𝑴𝒂’𝒂𝒎 𝑱𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒂 𝑩𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒂

June 5 2025

ISUFST Commencement Exercise 2025

ISUFST Admin Activities

𝗜𝗦𝗨𝗙𝗦𝗧 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗙𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗗𝗘𝗚𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝟭,𝟴𝟮𝟱 𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗗𝗨𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦

* 74 magna, 324 cum laude grads get CSC eligibility

In a historic milestone, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) conferred degrees to 1,825 graduates — including 74 magna cum laude and 324 cum laude honorees–during its university-wide, in-person with a live broadcast commencement exercises held Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the Tamasak Arena, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo. For the first time in ISUFST 68-year history, graduates received their actual diplomas on stage during the ceremony.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy C. Siason Jr. led the conferment of degrees, grounding the moment in both pride and purpose. Reflecting on the occasion, Dr. Siason said, “This isn’t just a graduation—it’s a celebration of grit and growth. Behind every diploma is a story of sacrifice, sleepless nights, and hope. At ISUFST, we don’t just hand out degrees—we help shape lives that will serve, innovate, and make a real difference in our communities.”

While Department of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, the designated commencement speaker, was unable to attend due to official commitments with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his message was delivered by DepEd Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera. Angara reaffirmed his strong ties with ISUFST, recalling his efforts in securing ₱10 million in funding for the College of Education Annex in 2018 and his co-authorship of RA 10604, the law that converted the then Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCOF) into a state university, ISUFST. He credited his late father, Sen. Edgardo Angara, as co-author of the Senate counterpart bill.

“Today, I want to underscore the importance of synergy between our basic and tertiary education,” Angara emphasized in his written message. “Together, DepEd and ISUFST share the vision of producing globally competitive, locally grounded graduates.”

He also praised ISUFST’s contributions to academic and community development. “ISUFST stands as a shining example of innovation and excellence, especially in marine sciences, community development, and sustainable technology,” Angara wrote. “As you sail forth into deeper waters, carry with you the pride of your roots.”

“Kamo ang buhi nga pamatuod nga wala sing limitasyon ang inobasyon kung ang tuyo amo ang pagpaayo sang kalidad sang edukasyon diri sa aton nga pungsod [You are the living proof that innovation knows no limits when the goal is to improve the quality of education in our country.],” Angara added, emphasizing the importance of innovation in education.

This year’s graduates came from five campuses and diverse academic programs, reflecting the university’s wide-ranging educational portfolio:

• Main Campus–Tiwi Site (295 graduates): 91 BS Fisheries, 16 BS Marine Biology, 27 BPE, 18 BSED English, 21 BSED Filipino, 4 BSED Math, 9 BSED Science, 4 BSED Social Studies, 27 BTLEd, 72 BSTM, 6 BLGA

• Main Campus–Poblacion Site (470): 99 BEED, 40 BSED English, 96 BS Information Technology, 161 BS Hospitality Management, 44 BIT Automotive, 16 BIT Electricity, 14 BIT Electronics

• Dingle Campus (409): 58 BS Agriculture Animal Science, 114 BS Agriculture Crop Science, 20 BEEd, 11 BSED Math, 11 BSED English, 31 BS Filipino, 6 BS Science, 53 BS Information Technology, 105 BS Hospitality Management

• Dumangas Campus (262): 52 BEED, 58 BSED English, 9 BSED Math, 16 BSED Science, 58 BS Hospitality Management, 69 BS Information Technology

• San Enrique Campus (389): 29 BEED, 27 BSED English, 12 BSED Math, 35 BSED Filipino, 50 BS Agriculture Animal Science, 67 BS Agriculture Crop Science, 73 BS Hospitality Management, 36 BS Office Administration, 60 BS Information Technology

Adding to the seven-hour occasion held in a jam-packed stadium, the Civil Service Commission awarded certificates of eligibility to the 398 graduates who earned Latin honors, recognizing their outstanding academic excellence and qualifying them for positions in government service without having to take the Career Service Exam. These honor graduates were also formally inducted into the ISUFST Alumni Association, signifying the beginning of their lifelong connection to the university and its growing network of professionals and changemakers.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga commended the graduates’ academic journey: “These graduates have undergone a well-rounded and outcomes-based education. They are prepared not just for jobs, but for meaningful impact.”

Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Johnny Dolor noted the institution’s preparedness for global workforce trends: “Our investment in infrastructure, from automotive technology upgrades to research hubs, mirrors our commitment to excellence and readiness for global workforce demands.”

The ceremony also recognized the university’s recent institutional achievements, including:

• Outstanding Board Performance Award for an 80% passing rate in the October 2024 Licensure Examination for Fisheries Professionals

• 100% Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for both undergraduate and graduate programs

• Awards for Excellence in Community Extension, Internationalization Initiatives, Peace Education, Indigenous Peoples Education, and Student Affairs and Services

• Recognition for Support to CHEDRO VI and as Model Implementer of STUFAP/CSP (ISUFST Dingle Campus)

The graduation program concluded a week-long schedule of recognition rites and baccalaureate services conducted from June 2 to June 4 across ISUFST’s campuses in Dingle, Dumangas, San Enrique, and the Main Campus (Tiwi and Poblacion Sites). These ceremonies were inclusive of both Catholic and non-Catholic faiths and were held in churches, function halls, and cultural centers.

Founded in 1957, ISUFST is the country’s first and only fisheries university. It is designated as a Center of Development in Fisheries and holds ISO 9001:2015 certification, with consistent accreditation from CHED and AACCUP. Today, ISUFST offers 27 undergraduate and 16 graduate programs, serving over 8,500 students with a faculty composed of over 280 educators, half of whom hold doctorate degrees. (Photos by Ricky Ramos and MIS/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)