Activities

December 22 2025

ISUFST Opens Batch 2 of UEE Applications for AY ‘26–‘27

Students who missed the first round of applications now have another opportunity as the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) officially opens Batch 2 of its University Entrance Examination (UEE) applications for Academic Year 2026–2027, following strong public demand.

From December 22, 2025, until February 7, 2026, people can apply for Batch 2. They can do so online or in person at any of ISUFST’s five campuses. The Batch 2 entrance exam will be on February 28, 2026. The Batch 1 exam, for which applications were due on December 12, will be on January 17, 2026.

University officials said the opening of a second batch responds to numerous requests from students, parents, and partner schools—particularly those who faced internet limitations, delayed school documents, late college admission campaign of senior high schools, or personal constraints during the first application period.

“We listened,” said ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr. “Many students reached out because they still wanted to apply but needed more time. Opening Batch 2 is our way of keeping education accessible and making sure no deserving learner is left behind.”

Applicants may submit their requirements through the following channels:

ONLINE – via the official ISUFST admissions portal.

ONSITE – at any ISUFST Registrar’s Office during regular office hours

Students are reminded to prepare the following basic requirements: Completed application form, Recent 2×2 ID photo, and Certification of enrollment signed by the School Head or Principal.

For more than six decades, ISUFST has served learners across fisheries, marine sciences, education, agriculture, technology, and management. Today, with over 8,500 students, the opening of Batch 2 reaffirms the university’s promise—since 1957—to keep education accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the future.

For inquiries, email asro@isufst.edu.ph or follow ISUFST’s official social media pages for announcements.

With Batch 2 now open, ISUFST reminds aspiring students: the door is still open—and your future can still begin here.

(Herman Lagon | PAMMCO)

#isufstisdafirst #isufstcommunity #isufst #pammcostoriesthatmatter

December 16 2025

100 HEI Leaders from 28 Universities Take Oath to Advance Micro-Credentials

ISUFST Admin Activities

Bacolod City—In a landmark moment for Philippine higher education, more than 100 university executives representing 28 higher education institutions (HEIs) across Western Visayas and the Negros Island Region stood together this Saturday, December 13, to take the “Micro-Credentials for the Future” Pledge of Commitment—a united response to CHED’s newly released CMO No. 1, Series of 2025, which formally introduces micro-credentialing as a national higher education strategy.

The oath-taking capped the two-day seminar-workshop on “Micro-Credentials for Academic Advancement: Strengthening Higher Education with a Global Perspective,” jointly organized by CHED Regional Offices VI and XVIII in partnership with the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) as co-organizer.

A Regional Response to a National Directive

With CMO 1 s. 2025 laying out the policy framework for micro-credentials in the Philippines, CHED RO VI and CHED RO XVIII convened the workshop as their first major regional initiative to help HEIs interpret, contextualize, and operationalize the newly mandated system. The activity also became one of the earliest regional embodiments of CHED’s newly launched ACHIEVE Agenda, the Commission’s 7-point higher education transformation roadmap for 2025–2030, which highlights Advanced and Accessible Lifelong Learning, Expanded Internationalization, and stronger, future-ready HEI systems.

The gathered university heads—vice presidents, deans, directors, department and program heads—took the historic pledge as a commitment to transform the national directive into concrete, localized programs for learners in their respective communities.

Before the oath, participants were reminded: “Micro-credentials are not trends or buzzwords. They are our response to the real needs of our communities—reminding us that learning must stay flexible, human, and accessible to those who depend on our institutions.”

With right hands raised, they declared in unison:

“We pledge our unity and commitment to lifelong learning.

We vow to uphold CHED’s vision, to design micro-credentials that empower learners, and to collaborate for excellence and innovation.

Together, we stand as catalysts of change for our students, our regions, and our nation.

We pledge. We commit. We shall fulfill.”

Day 1: Framework, Dialogue, and Design

The two-day workshop opened on December 12 with discussions led by micro-credentials expert Dr. Greg Pawilen, who outlined global models and emerging credentialing trends. ISUFST VPAA Dr. Joan M. Belga also shared “ISUFST’s Journey Toward Building Micro-Credential Ecosystems,” offering practical insights from the university’s early adoption efforts.

ISUFST resource speakers Dr. Stephen Raymund Jinon, Dr. Wenda Panes, and Dr. Herman Lagon capped the day with sessions on policy alignment, technology-driven design, and micro-credentialing for psychological first aid.

The day ended with HEIs drafting their own micro-credential proposals aligned with CMO 1 s. 2025—outputs presented on Day 2 for feedback and refinement.

Dr. Alvarez: “ISUFST is trailblazing”

During the afternoon program, CHED Region XVIII Director and former CHED Region VI Director Dr. Raul Alvarez expressed gratitude for ISUFST’s leadership. “ISUFST is truly trailblazing,” he said.

He also linked the regional workshop to CHED’s new ACHIEVE Agenda, emphasizing the ‘A’—Advanced and Accessible Lifelong Learning. “In our push for micro-credentials,” he said, “we are operationalizing what the ‘A’ in ACHIEVE stands for: advanced and accessible lifelong learning. This is not just a slogan. It is our responsibility. Every Filipino, regardless of age or circumstance, must have pathways to keep learning and improving.”

“We thank ISUFST for openly sharing its journey. When you go home, we hope you bring at least one concrete micro-credential idea that fits your school and community. Micro-credentials are something we have missed for a long time—learners need small, focused tasks that help them return to their fields more efficient and better prepared.”

He concluded: “Our job in higher education is to build competencies. Micro-credentials are one of the tools that will help us do exactly that.”

Day 2: Presentations and a Collective Promise

Day 2 continued with proposal presentations and collaborative critique. Chief Education Program Specialist Danebeth Narzoles of CHED RO VI reinforced another ACHIEVE pillar—the ‘E’ for Expanded and Impact-Driven Internationalization, noting how micro-credentials can help local HEIs enter global learning ecosystems through stackability, mobility, and cross-border recognition. She proudly highlighted that Western Visayas and the Negros Island Region recently ranked as the second runner up nationwide for Best Internationalization Initiative, a recognition she described as “proof that our regions are ready for global engagement.”

The final day centered on proposal sharing, collaborative critique, and validation. Facilitators said the process surfaced strong models and clarified shared challenges, giving schools clearer direction for implementation.

But it was the Pledge of Commitment that marked the workshop’s emotional and symbolic high point—signifying a unified regional movement toward flexible, stackable, skills-based learning aligned with ACHIEVE’s thrusts.

Strengthening CHED–ISUFST Synergy

ISUFST’s delegation—Dr. Belga, Dr. Jinon, Dr. Panes, Dr. Lagon, Dr. Joana Paula Biñas, Mr. Jonard Verdeflor, Dr. Michle Celeste, Dr. Michelle Bales, Mr. Dave Allan Tagacay, and Dr. Benjamin Cornelio Jr.—served as co-facilitators, technical leads, and secretariat support.

Coming shortly after the CHED–ISUFST Creative Works collaboration last October, this workshop signals deepening regional synergy in shaping higher education innovation.

As the two-day event closed, one belief resonated among all 28 universities present: Higher education must evolve with the times—but always remain rooted in the lived realities of the communities it serves.

(Herman Lagon | PAMMCO)

#isufstisdafirst #isufstcommunity #isufst #pammcostoriesthatmatter

December 1 2025

ISUFST PAMMCO Ambassadors Shine in the 16th Gusting Awards

ISUFST Admin Activities, Recognitions

Five young ambassadors of the loilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications Office (PAMMCO) have ignited the stage as they joined the 16th Gusting journalism training and workshop held at University of San Agustin Auditorium, November 29-30, 2025.

Themed “Beyond the Byline: Journalism as a Watchdog against Disinformation for Campus and Beyond,” the event was participated in by 750 students from 51 schools in Panay, Negros and Cebu.

Among the winning ISUFSTian PAMMCO Ambassadors are:

– Lagradante, Crystel – 1st Place, News Writing (Filipino)

– Adonis Pango – 2nd Place Short Reels

– Jovie Kate Lorca – 3rd Place Feature Writing (English)

Alongsde them were ambassadors Tiffany Anne Sullesa, and Dein Andrey Daguro, representing Tiwi, Dingle, and Dumangas campuses.

The five are part of a group of studentscalled PAMMCO ambassadors, who applied and committed to assist ISUFST in its effort to “show and tell (ISUFST) stories that matter” to the community through the different mediums of communication and public affairs initiatives.

It is worth noting that the two-day affair covered traditional and contemporary journalistic platforms, including news, feature, editorial, column, and sports writing, copyreading and headlining, video editing, broadcasting, vlogging, editorial cartooning, page layouting and design, social media content creation, reels editing, and media and digital ethics, among others.

To elevate the level of training, it had national media experts and practitioners from Rappler; ABS-CBN, SunStar,, and the academe as its resource speakers, facilitators, judges, and discussants. This included ISUFST’s PAMMCO Director Herman Lagon, a regular columnist of 15 newspapers nationwide, who covered feature, editorial, and column writing. (

Crystel P. Lagradante |

Adonis Pango | PAMMCO)

November 20 2025

Localization of Women’s and Children’s Policies (LWCP) Project Policy Forum

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

October 24 2025

ISUFST Showcases 16 Scientific and Creative Works on Small-Scale Fisheries at National Symposium in Marawi

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

MARAWI CITY — As the Philippines pushes for stronger protection of its small-scale fishers through the “Atin ang Kinse Kilometro” bill, faculty and students from the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) joined hundreds of advocates in Mindanao to turn research into resolve.

Eight ISUFST delegates—seven faculty members and one fisheries student—presented 16 research and creative works at the Second Philippine Small-Scale Fisheries National Symposium (PSSFNS2) held on October 21–23, 2025, at the Mindanao State University (MSU)–Main Campus in Marawi City. The works, blending science, storytelling, and song, championed sustainability and inclusivity in the country’s small-scale fisheries (SSF) sector.

“Too Big To Ignore”

Gathering over 300 scientists, educators, artists, fishers, students, and policymakers, the three-day symposium carried the theme “From Recognition to Action.” Organized by MSU and Too Big To Ignore (TBTI) Philippines, it called for stronger and fairer policies to protect the country’s 15-kilometer municipal waters—the very heart of the “Atin ang Kinse” campaign, which fights for the rightful space of small fishers in their own seas.

“This consortium of universities, agencies, and communities aims to make small-scale fisheries visible, viable, and sustainable,” said Dr. Glen Lorenzo, MSU Vice President for Research and Extension. The gathering also tackled pressing issues such as climate change, overfishing, and illegal encroachment by commercial vessels—threats that the pending “Atin ang Kinse Kilometro Bill” (HB 5606) seeks to address.

ISUFST’s Contributions: Science, Art, and Advocacy

Representing ISUFST were Dr. Rolindo B. Demo-os Jr., Dr. Jescel B. Bito-onon, Prof. Rother M. Gaudiel, Dr. Quin Y. Clarito, Dr. Michael B. Dizon, Instructor Jezreel C. Donguila, Dr. Herman M. Lagon, and BS Fisheries student Melody Vaughn Ferrer.

Their diverse outputs—from fisheries research and photo essays to poetry and original songs—embodied ISUFST’s belief that science and culture can work together to heal and protect the seas.

Among the technical studies were “Catch Rates and Fishery Characterization of Filter Nets in Tinori-an River, Iloilo” by Bito-onon and Gaudiel, and “Fishing Smarter: Comparative Analysis of Fish Pot Designs Used by Small-Scale Fishers in Banate Bay” by Clarito.

Ferrer’s team, composed of CFAS students and faculty, presented “Pearl and Other Economically Valuable Oysters of Northern Iloilo: Morphometric Insights for Conservation and Fisheries.” The study highlighted the balance between livelihood and conservation—and won second place in the oral presentation category, besting entries from universities nationwide.

“These projects show how local innovation builds resilience in small-scale fisheries,” said Dr. Bito-onon, ISUFST Director for Research and Development. “It’s not just about data; it’s about empowering the communities that depend on our waters.”

Art Meets Advocacy

The symposium also celebrated creative works that bridged science and human experience. Dr. Herman M. Lagon’s poetry, short stories, and photography collections—“Between Net and Node,” “The Net That Holds,” “Where the Line Holds,” “Of Change,” “Lines of Salt and Hope,” “When Only the Bangkas Rest,” and “When Currents Meet the Roots”—captured the soul of coastal life: its struggles, rhythm, and hope.

Lagon, together with Instr. Jezreel C. Donguila, also presented two original advocacy songs, “Let the Line Hold” and “The Lines We Cast,” inspired by the Atin ang Kinse campaign. The songs, arranged with karaoke-style visuals and live footage edited by Patrick Lance Nacion using images from Dean Demo-os and Dr. Lagon, were performed by Donguila during the closing plenary and MOA signing ceremony—drawing resounding applause from the audience.

Beyond the symposium halls, the ISUFST delegation experienced Maranao hospitality. On the first night, delegates were treated to a Pagana Meranao dinner—an elaborate ceremonial feast where guests “eat like royalty.” Seated around a grand tabak (ornate tray), they shared flavorful dishes with their hands in true Maranao fashion.

The Marawi Manifesto and a Promise for the Future

The symposium concluded with the signing of the Marawi Manifesto, a collective pledge of support for the Atin ang Kinse movement and the Too Big To Ignore (TBTI) advocacy for inclusive, sustainable, and resilient fisheries. During the signing, Donguila’s live rendition of “Let the Line Hold” and “The Lines We Cast” filled the MSU gymnasium as photos of fisherfolk and coastal communities played onscreen—a moment described by many as “a hymn for the sea and the people who live by it.”

Participants also celebrated the acceptance of Batangas State University (BSU) as the next host of PSSFNS3 in 2026, marking the continued expansion of the TBTI network across the archipelago.

They capped the symposium with a visit to Marawi’s Ground Zero, where the scars of war stood as a solemn reminder that battles for survival come in many forms. Just as Marawi once fought for the right to life and peace, today’s Atin ang Kinse movement fights for the right of small fishers—and the seas they depend on—to live and thrive.

A Shared Mission

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr. commended the delegation for embodying the university’s vision of blending “science, culture, arts, and compassion in service of people and planet.” He emphasized that ISUFST’s efforts directly align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

For ISUFST, the symposium was more than an academic event—it was a reminder of purpose. “When we tell the stories of small fishers, artistically and scientifically,” said Lagon, “we’re also telling the story of our shared future.”

The PSSFNS2 came at a crucial time, as fisherfolk groups renewed calls for the passage of the “Atin ang Kinse Kilometro Bill” (HB 5606). The measure seeks to restore small fishers’ exclusive rights to municipal waters—rights recently challenged by a court ruling favoring commercial vessels.

From the shores of Banate to the lakes of Lanao, the message of PSSFNS2 was clear: small-scale fishers are too big to ignore. (PAMMCO)

#ISUFSTisdaFirst #ISUFSTCommunity #PAMMCOStoriesThatMatter #AtinAngKinse #PSSFNS2 #LifeBelowWater

October 7 2025

BS Fisheries Program Achieves AACCUP Level IV Re-Accreditation

ISUFST Admin Activities, Recognitions

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)