Activities

August 26 2025

ISUFST Holds Extension Training for Fisherfolk in Banate, Iloilo

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), through its 𝙀𝙭𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘿𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙥𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙊𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙚, in partnership with the 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞, 𝐌𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞, and 𝐁𝐅𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐂, conducted an extension training titled“𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗶𝘀𝗱𝗮 𝗔𝗸𝗼, 𝗨𝗻𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮𝗱 𝗞𝗼” on August 22, 2025, at the Multi-Purpose Building, Poblacion Banate, Iloilo.

The activity aimed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of fisherfolk in Banate Bay on safe navigation, climate change adaptation, marine protection, and fisheries laws, ensuring both safety at sea and sustainable coastal resource use.

The program was attended by 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐚𝐮𝐥 𝐓. 𝐆𝐨𝐧𝐳𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬, Mayor of Banate, and 𝐌𝐫. 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐁. 𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐳, Municipal Agriculturist. Representing University President 𝐃𝐫. 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐲 𝐃. 𝐒𝐢𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐫., 𝐂𝐄𝐒𝐎 𝐕𝐈, was 𝐃𝐫. 𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧𝐧𝐲 𝐁. 𝐃𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐫, Vice President for Administration and Finance, who also served as a lecturer. A message of support from the Philippine Coast Guard was likewise delivered on behalf of ENS 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐆. 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐚, 𝐏𝐂𝐆, Sub-Station Commander of Banate.

The training proper featured a line-up of experts and young scholars who shared their knowledge on pressing issues affecting fisherfolk communities:

-𝐃𝐫. 𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧𝐧𝐲 𝐁. 𝐃𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐫 – 𝘼𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙋𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙃𝙤𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙎𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙙 𝙒𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙈𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝘾𝙤𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝘼𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝘽𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝘽𝙖𝙮

-𝐃𝐫. 𝐋𝐨𝐮 𝐆. 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚 – 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙋𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄𝙩𝙨 𝙄𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙈𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙖𝙡 𝙁𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙠 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙨

-𝐃𝐫. 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐁. 𝐃𝐢𝐨𝐜𝐨𝐬 – 𝘼𝙙𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚: 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙎𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝘾𝙤𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙨

-𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭. 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐚 𝐌. 𝐏𝐢𝐜𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧, 𝐏𝐡𝐃 – 𝙉𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙜𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙎𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙇𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙎𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙇𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙎𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙚𝙨

-𝐌𝐬. 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐯𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐨 – 𝘾𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝙍𝙚𝙚𝙛 𝙀𝙘𝙤𝙨𝙮𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙢

-𝐌𝐬. 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐉𝐨𝐲 𝐁. 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐠 – 𝙈𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙀𝙘𝙤𝙨𝙮𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙢

-𝐃𝐫. 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐨 – 𝙎𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙁𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙁𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝘾𝙤𝙙𝙚 (𝙍𝘼 10654)

The training concluded with a post-assessment session and a closing message from 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭. 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐚 𝐌. 𝐏𝐢𝐜𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧, 𝐏𝐡𝐃, Project Leader, underscored ISUFST’s commitment to fisherfolk empowerment and sustainable fisheries development.

This initiative reflects ISUFST’s continuing efforts to support coastal communities, promote safety at sea, and protect marine resources in collaboration with local stakeholders.

August 19 2025

ISUFST’s Gender and Localization-Based Presentations Shines at ISSHCON 2025

ISUFST Admin Activities, Gender and Development, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) made a comprehensive showing at the 2nd International Social Sciences and Humanities Conference (ISSHCON 2025) held on August 13–16 at the Metrocentre Hotel, according to Dr. Francisco Magno, Director of the De La Salle University (DLSU) Jesse M. Robredo Institute of Governance (JRIG).

Dr. Magno, who, together with ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., spearheaded the collaborative project on the localization of women’s and children’s policies between DLSU and ISUFST, lauded the university’s strong research presence in the international conference, saying that the breadth of studies reflected both academic rigor and social relevance. The ISUFST presentations were based on co-authored papers with De La Salle University faculty and researchers.

This initiative is directly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, particularly the Times Higher Education SDG 16.3.3 metric on “Participation in government research.” The project has involved policy-focused research in collaboration with government departments, including the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, and the Iloilo Provincial Government. This grounding ensured that the conference presentations were not only academically rigorous but also policy-relevant, bridging scholarship and governance practice.

The ISUFST contingent presented 12 papers under the themes of gender, governance, sustainability, and higher education transformation, drawing positive attention from participants across the Philippines and abroad. This joint academic output demonstrates how universities foster SDG Impact through the SDG 17.2 metric of Times Higher Education on “Relationships to support the goals,” which emphasizes building international data-sharing platforms, promoting best practices, and facilitating cross-sectoral dialogue to advance the SDGs.

Among the featured gender-focused presentations were:

• Mr. Reil Jan Patosa’s research on women’s governance participation;
• Dr. Herman Lagon’s analysis on barangay health workers’ gender and mental wellness;
• Dr. Jescel Bito-onon’s presentation on women in coastal climate governance;
• Dr. Joana Paula Biñas’ findings on fighting violence against women;
• Dr. Jeanette Bayona’s work on women, culture, and sustainable tourism;
• Dr. Lenirose Mondero’s paper on localizing and diffusing national policies on women’s rights;
• Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Johnny Dolor’s study on gender and governance in waste management; and
• Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga’s advocacy on advancing women’s reproductive health.

ISUFST also showcased its institutional journey through Dr. Bito-onon’s paper on university conversion through the extension lens, Dr. Edmer Bernardo’s study on equity for first-generation students, Dr. Bayona’s work on SDG-driven global engagement, and President Nordy Siason Jr.’s presentation on the university’s transition and development agenda.

Aside from presenting their own papers, Dr. Bayona and Dr. Lagon also served as moderators of two separate parallel sessions, further highlighting ISUFST’s active role in scholarly exchange. This aligns with SDG 17’s call for cross-sectoral dialogue by positioning ISUFST not just as a knowledge producer but also as a convener of research-based conversations that transcend institutional and national borders.

President Siason described the event as an opportunity to elevate ISUFST’s research voice in global policy conversations, through the partnership with De La Salle University, while staying rooted in local realities. “Our mission is to turn community-based challenges into research-driven solutions that can influence both national and international frameworks,” he said.

ISUFST’s delegation, composed of 11 faculty researchers in close partnership with DLSU, demonstrated how a growing state university could contribute meaningfully to evidence-based policy advocacy. Their work embodies the dual impact of SDG 16 and SDG 17: strengthening institutions through policy-engaged research collaborations, while also cultivating global academic partnerships that disseminate best practices and foster shared learning.

From gender-responsive governance to higher education equity, the presentations echoed ISUFST’s evolving identity as a research-driven institution. As Dr. Magno emphasized, the performance was not only academically sound but socially vital — a testament to ISUFST’s commitment to shaping sustainable and inclusive futures while advancing the global SDG agenda through strategic partnerships and policy-focused research. (PAMMCO)

August 5 2025

ISUFST Hosts Gender and Anti-Sexual Harassment Awareness Conversations

ISUFST Admin Activities, Gender and Development

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) conducted a gender and anti-sexual harassment awareness seminar this Friday, August 1, 2025, at Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City. The activity aimed to empower faculty and staff with essential knowledge on gender sensitivity and Republic Act 7877, also known as the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995.

Organized by the university’s Gender and Development (GAD) Office, the event—titled “Know Your Rights: Empowering Employees through GAD and Anti-Sexual Harassment Awareness” was part of ISUFST’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusive, respectful, and safe working environments in line with its core values and its commitment to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5: Gender Equality.

“We are building a university where dignity, equity, and safety are non-negotiables,” said Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., ISUFST President, said about the systemwide initiative. “Gender and development are not just compliance matters—they are integral to how we form professionals and lead communities.”

The event opened with remarks from Dr. Johnny Dolor, Vice President for Administration and Finance, and a rationale presentation by Dr. Lenirose Mondero, ISUFST GAD Director. Participants were welcomed into a day of critical discourse and reflection on rights, boundaries, and responsibilities within academic and workplace contexts.

The first session focused on gender sensitivity, led by Ms. Alma Ravena, Co-Chair of the Provincial Gender and Development Council and member of the National Gender Resource Pool of the Philippine Commission on Women. Drawing on a decade of grassroots advocacy, Ravena emphasized the power of education in shifting mindsets and breaking gender stereotypes.

“When we understand gender beyond biology, we begin to unlearn bias, challenge inequality, and create safer spaces for everyone,” Ravena shared, adding that policies only matter if people truly believe in the dignity they protect.

In the second session, Atty. Doni June Almio, Managing Partner of Oso Pueblo Hiponia Almio & Associates and law faculty member at the University of San Agustin, gave a detailed lecture on the legal framework of RA 7877 and related jurisprudence. Almio clarified the obligations of institutions to prevent and address sexual harassment and the mechanisms for redress available to victims.

“Sexual harassment thrives in silence and inaction,” Almio warned. “RA 7877 mandates not only punishment for offenders but also accountability for institutions that fail to protect.”

The forum also tackled how sexual harassment is committed in both workplace and educational settings and discussed the responsibilities of employers to establish a Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI). The need for clear internal policies, proper decorum, and awareness of both administrative and legal remedies were also outlined.

Closing the program, Dr. Joan Belga, Vice President for Academic Affairs, reiterated ISUFST’s institutional stance. “We are not just here to comply with mandates. We are here to shape a university culture where no one feels unsafe, unheard, or unseen.”

The activity is part of a series of gender mainstreaming initiatives under ISUFST’s GAD Program, reflecting the university’s broader institutional mission of nurturing competent and values-oriented professionals across its five campuses.

Founded in 1957, ISUFST is the country’s premier fisheries university, offering 27 undergraduate and 16 graduate programs. It has consistently earned accolades, including the 2025 CHED Awards for Excellence in Indigenous Peoples Education, Internationalization Initiatives, Peace Education, and Community Extension and Linkages. The university is also globally recognized through its inclusion in the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, particularly in SDG 14: Life Below Water. (Photos by Ricky Ramos and Herman Lagon/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

August 4 2025

Davao del Sur State College Conducts Benchmarking Visit to ISUFST for University Conversion Goals

ISUFST Admin Activities

BAROTAC NUEVO, ILOILO (August 4, 2025)—The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) welcomed nine key officials from Davao del Sur State College (DSSC) for a one-day benchmarking visit at its Main Campus–Tiwi Site, a significant step in DSSC’s preparations for its planned university conversion in 2028.

Spearheading the DSSC delegation was Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Siverlyn Camposano, accompanied by Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Luciano Nasibog, Jr. The team was warmly received by ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Jonny Dolor, and university officials from various academic and administrative sectors.

The exchange was more than a formal visit—it was a full-circle immersion. After hours in the conference room for the orientation, presentations, and Q&A session, the DSSC delegation visited ISUFST’s key spaces—from offices to labs, classrooms to museum—and had solid sit-downs with unit heads. They exchanged ideas, shared challenges, and dove into topics like governance and documentation, finding the conversation both honest and inspiring.

DSSC VPAA Dr. Camposano shared that learning about ISUFST’s journey and the behind-the-scenes efforts that led to its university conversion gave their team both clarity and inspiration. She noted that they witnessed more than just documents and policies—they saw the people and systems that truly brought the vision to life.

ISUFST’s journey from being Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCOF) to achieving full university status on January 10, 2023, served as the roadmap DSSC came to learn from. Now with campuses and sites in Barotac Nuevo, Dingle, Dumangas, and San Enrique, ISUFST stands as the country’s only fisheries university.

VPAA Dr. Belga described the visit as a moment of shared growth. “It’s rare to have a conversation that’s both technical and heartwarming,” she said. “We’re happy to walk with DSSC in this journey—not as experts, but as fellow educators strengthening our institutions together.”

ISUFST President Dr. Siason, Jr., echoed this, saying that meaningful exchanges like these help build a stronger culture of collaboration and nation-building in higher education. He quickly shared that ISUFST’s own transition was the result of years of planning, community engagement, and meeting CHED’s standards. “It wasn’t easy,” he said, “but it was worth it.”

DSSC’s benchmarking activity is rooted in the requirements of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for university conversion. Institutions must show institutional maturity, competent leadership, strong faculty profiles, adequate libraries and infrastructure, research productivity, impact of international linkages, and meaningful community engagement. CHED also requires strict compliance with its orders and a demonstrated commitment to continuous quality improvement.

This visit is part of DSSC’s bigger plan to prepare for university hood. After ISUFST, they are also set to visit West Visayas State University for another round of learning. As both schools shared during the wrap-up, it was more than just a compliance check—it was about culture, leadership, networking, and the everyday work of building futures through education. (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

July 29 2025

CHED Official Sees Strong Potential in ISUFST’s Proposed BS Nursing Program

ISUFST Admin Activities

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) visited the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) on Monday, July 28, 2025, to conduct a preliminary evaluation for the proposed Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, targeted to launch in the first semester of Academic Year 2026–2027 at the ISUFST Main Campus–Poblacion Site, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo.

Dr. Arnold John Anceno, Education Supervisor II of CHED Regional Office VI, did the technical assistance visit held at the CICT Conference Room. The assessment reviewed ISUFST’s program proposal and initial compliance with CHED’s Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) requirements.

With strong planning and clear alignment with CHED’s guidelines, ISUFST is in a promising spot, Dr. Anceno, a medical doctor himself, shared. He is hopeful the BS Nursing program will gain approval by next year.

During the visit, Dr. Anceno examined key documents and toured proposed facilities like amphitheaters and mock hospitals, essential for future nurses’ training. To make this possible, ISUFST intends to retrofit its College of Education (CoEd) and College of Industrial Technology (CIT) buildings at the Poblacion site to serve as the future home of the College of Nursing. Meanwhile, current CoEd and CIT students will be relocated to the Tiwi Site of the Main Campus in AY 2026-2027 to accommodate the transition.

The visit was in response to a formal request made by ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., following a previously postponed schedule due to work suspension caused by bad weather conditions. In the request, Dr. Siason emphasized the importance of CHED’s guidance during the university’s preliminary evaluation for COPC application.

“This is more than an institutional expansion—it’s a mission to provide community-responsive, accessible nursing education in northern Iloilo,” Dr. Siason said during the consultation. “We want to produce future nurses who are deeply grounded in service and competence.”

The proposed BSN program is the first of its kind to be offered outside Iloilo City in the northern part of the province. ISUFST had earlier conducted a consultation with Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) National President Dr. Rosana Grace Belo-Delariarte, who expressed strong support for the initiative, noting the urgent need for localized nursing education in underserved areas.

To ensure program quality, ISUFST is pursuing partnerships with several hospitals in the region, including the Don Jose S. Monfort Medical Center, Iloilo Provincial Hospital, Ramon D. Duremdes District Hospital, and Asia Pacific Medical Center–Iloilo, for clinical training and Related Learning Experiences (RLE).

The university also held a stakeholder consultation on July 15 to define the BSN program’s Vision, Goals, Mission, and Objectives (VGMO), engaging local government units, barangay health workers, alumni, students, and parents. According to ISUFST Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga, the university is now coordinating benchmarking visits and faculty recruitment to meet program and compliance requirements.

“We are aligning every step with CHED standards, but we are also staying true to ISUFST’s brand of quality education—rooted in local context and driven by global relevance,” Dr. Belga noted.

With the COPC application process underway, ISUFST is optimistic about its chances, bolstered by its ISO 9001:2015 certification, AACCUP accreditations, and recent CHED awards for excellence in community extension, internationalization, and Indigenous Peoples education.

Founded in 1957, ISUFST is the country’s first and only state university for fisheries. It now offers 27 undergraduate and 16 graduate programs across five campuses, serving over 8,500 students. The planned BSN is part of the university’s expansion into high-demand sectors identified in the Philippine Development Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Admission to the BSN program is expected to open by the latter part of AY 2025–2026, pending CHED approval. Updates will be released through ISUFST’s official platforms. (Photos by Ricky Ramos/Text by Herman Lagon/ PAMMCO)

July 26 2025

One Legacy, One Home: The 2025 Grand Alumni Homecoming

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension

From DHS, DAIS, DATEC, ISCOF to ISUFST — generations of proud alumni gathered on July 26, 2025, to celebrate a legacy built through time. The event was graced by University President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., with an inspiring keynote message from Mr. Wilson Batislaon.

The day began with a colorful parade of batches, each joyfully led by their muses and escorts — a wonderful display of the unity and pride shared by all who have been part of these halls.

More than just a reunion, the Grand Alumni Homecoming was a heartfelt reminder that no matter where life leads us, this will always be one legacy, one home.
– Edeline Joy Brito / PAMMCO
📸 Sir Ricky Ramos

#ISUFST #ISUFSTisDaFirst #ISUFSTCommunity

One Legacy, One Home: The 2025 Grand Alumni Homecoming

July 25 2025

Celebrating 78 Years of Excellence, Service, and Transformative Education

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension

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The 78th Founding Anniversary of ISUFST Dingle Campus, held on July 25, 2025, was a joyful tribute to its rich history and lasting legacy. We were honored to have Dr. Reginal Clavel as our inspirational speaker, whose words stirred pride and purpose in the ISUFST community.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan M. Belga also graced the event, joining in the recognition of our loyal faculty and staff through the Service Awards, as well as our Outstanding Alumni who continue to shine in their respective fields.

Our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Dingras Balbona, OIC Campus Administrator, for the warm welcome extended to our guests and alumni.

Here’s to more years of commitment, growth, and impact.
– Edeline Joy Brito / PAMMCO
📸 Sir Ricky Ramos
📸 ISUFST Dingle Campus FB Page

#ISUFST #ISUFSTisDaFirst #ISUFSTCommunity

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July 22 2025

ISUFST Charts Global Path with Heart for Local Communities

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, Gender and Development, Projects

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, Projects, 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 17 2025

ISUFST joins Strategic Capacity Building for Global University Rankings: Advancing WURI, THE, and QS Performance

ISUFST Admin Activities

𝗚𝗟𝗢𝗕𝗔𝗟 𝗣𝗢𝗪𝗘𝗥 𝗠𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗦. Our ISUFST delegates—Dr. Rex Paulino, Dr. Joana Paula Biñas, Dr. Armando Katalbas, Ms. Charmane Nochete, Ms. Kristine Eleanor Bedia, and Dr. Herman Lagon—wrapped up the Strategic Capacity Building for Global University Rankings with focus and fire at UNO-R, Bacolod City.

Attended by delegates from 28 higher education institutions across Region VI (Western Visayas) and Region XVIII (Negros Island), the high-level summit—steered by CHED Regional Director Dr. Raul Alvarez, Jr.—serves as a catalyst for elevating institutional performance and visibility in WURI, THE, and QS global ranking systems. (PAMMCO) #isufstisdafirst #isufst #isufstcommunity #ISUFSTRising #GlobalUniversityGoals

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