Activities

July 8 2025

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

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)

May 27 2025

Dr. Siason shares ISUFST’s Bold HR Reforms in CSC VI Hosted ‘Conversation with SUCs’

ISUFST Admin Activities

Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., drew strong applause from over 160 delegates during the first-ever “Conversations with State Universities (SUs) and Local Colleges (LCs)” hosted by the Civil Service Commission Regional Office VI (CSC RO VI) on Monday, May 26, at District 21 Hotel in Iloilo City.

Dr. Siason presented ISUFST’s pioneering and data-driven human resource practices under the theme “BEST Practices HR: Bawat Kawani, Lingkod Bayani,” spotlighting the university’s transformative journey since its conversion into a state university just 28 months ago. With a focus on values-based leadership, he outlined strategic interventions across recruitment, development, performance, and recognition that have propelled the university toward becoming a future-ready academic institution.

At the heart of his presentation was ISUFST’s “scrap-and-build” faculty model, which restructured eight high-tier academic posts—including the coveted University Professor position—into 51 new Instructor I items. This aggressive expansion, Dr. Siason noted, enabled the university to hire 114 new faculty members from 2022 to 2024, reinforcing the institution’s thrust toward grassroots capacity building and inclusive talent development.

“We do not just hire for skill; we hire for heart,” Siason said. “It is Talino at Puso—brains and character—that shape our definition of excellence.” He emphasized ISUFST’s bias-aware hiring practices, meritocratic processes, and commitment to diversity, reflecting the university’s guiding values of Integrity, Social Justice, Discipline, and Academic Excellence (ISDA).

Siason also shared the university’s efforts in staff development, highlighting the integration of counseling services, affirmative action programs, and institutional support for creative and research outputs. He noted the creation of the Student and Faculty Support Center and the pioneering of a policy framework for creative work, as part of ISUFST’s holistic support system for academic growth.

On performance management, he cited ISUFST’s strong internal accountability systems, including active participation in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings and an agency performance rating of 4.65—classified as “Very Satisfactory.” He likewise introduced the university’s unique Research and Extension Hub, home to the “Hasa-hasa Theater,” which supports interdisciplinary collaboration. This is on top of many other infrastructure projects he also presented that weave the thrust of his administration for quality, conducive, and inclusive higher education.

“The culture we build is one of recognition, not just regulation,” Siason shared, pointing to ISUFST’s milestone and loyalty awards and its heartfelt tributes to educators like the late Dr. Paler, whose dedication to fisheries education helped shape board topnotchers and future experts. Just this month, his legacy was immortalized with the inauguration of Paler Hall—a review center named in his honor, serving as a lasting reminder of his impact on generations of learners.

During his talk, Dr. Siason also previewed ISUFST’s forthcoming recognitions at the CHED Regional Quality Awards on May 28, which include: Outstanding Board Performance in the October 2024 Fisheries Licensure Exam, 100% COPC compliance for all programs, and multiple distinctions for excellence in community extension, internationalization, peace education, and Indigenous Peoples education. The CSC-hosted forum served as a knowledge-sharing platform, bringing together HR leaders and education officials to strengthen civil service excellence within higher education.

CSC Acting Director IV Atty. Erna T. Elizan opened the event by emphasizing collaboration and shared accountability in policy implementation across the SUC and LC network.

Joining Dr. Siason as featured speakers were CSC Office for Legal Affairs Director III Jamahlin Lacandazo-Escalona, Aklan State University Vice President Julie Ann A. Salido, and CSC NCR Director IV Victoria Esber, who provided insights on PRIME-HRM, legal cases, and the role of transformative HR in academe.

Founded in 1957, ISUFST is the country’s only fisheries university, offering 27 undergraduate and 16 graduate programs across five campuses. With a student population of over 8,500 and a faculty base where half hold doctoral degrees, ISUFST continues to align its institutional mission with national and global development goals, driven by innovation, inclusivity, and service. (Photos by Jeanette Bayona and CSC/Text by Herman Lagon and Edmer Bernardo/PAMMCO)

April 7 2025

ISUFST Unveils P25M Research and Extension Hub, Paving the Way for a Fisheries Learning Complex

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries and Technology (ISUFST) has officially inaugurated its P25 million Research and Extension Hub, a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to enhance its academic and research facilities. This infrastructure, almost two years in the making, marks the first of its magnitude under the leadership of President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr.

Located at the university’s Main Campus-Tiwi Site in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, the new hub boasts a multipurpose cinema-function hall, dedicated offices for the Research and Extension departments, and innovation spaces. According to Dr. Johnny Dolor, Vice President for Administration and Finance, this project is a testament to the university’s commitment to improving research capabilities and community outreach.

The completion of the Research and Extension Hub represents the beginning of a broader vision articulated by President Siason. “I hope to establish a Fisheries Learning Complex, and this hub will be a significant part of that vision,” Siason said during the turnover rites. The complex will feature the Research and Extension Hub through the ongoing developments and existing facilities that include, among many others, the Paler Hall, a fish processing complex, a 26-hectare fishpond, brackish water areas, and multiple fish processing, training, collaboration, production, and research laboratories.

This ambitious plan also includes constructing an P80-million Olympic-sized swimming pool and sports complex and a P22.5-million state-of-the-art library. Except for the library, which will start this year, these ongoing projects are set to provide a holistic learning environment, ensuring that students gain a well-rounded education and practical experience.

“We are building a university that is not just about academics but also about providing students with the best facilities to help them excel. This research and extension hub, along with our other ongoing infrastructure projects, is an essential part of our dream to make ISUFST a reservoir of research and extension,” Siason added.

Contractor Doroteo Salas of DG Salas Construction Services, for his part, shared that the project was a result of careful planning and collaboration. “It was a challenging but fulfilling project, especially since the university was very particular about quality and the timely completion of the structure.”

Dr. Jescel Bito-onon, ISUFST’s Research Director, emphasized that the new hub will greatly improve the university’s research capabilities. “This facility will allow us to expand our research, host more community-oriented activities, and continue contributing to the development of the fisheries sector in the region,” Bito-onon said.

As ISUFST continues investing in infrastructure and beefing up its faculty portfolio and organizational processes, President Siason reflected on the importance of choosing the right contractor for each learning facility. “Every bidding process is a prayer that we find the right partner for the job. Like the contractor who built this hub, we hope to continue working with the best for all our future projects.

With the Research and Extension Hub now operational, ISUFST, the only fisheries university in the country, takes another step toward becoming one of the leading universities in the region. As how it has poised itself to do in recent years, ISUFST continues to be committed to producing well-equipped professionals ready to lead not just in the fisheries and aquatic sciences fields but also in the areas of education, agriculture, management, industrial and information technology. (Herman Lagon/Sea Treasure/R&D Office/PAMMCO)

March 31 2025

ISUFST Receives P1.89-M Rotary Grant for Automotive Laboratory Upgrade

ISUFST Admin Activities, Recognitions

𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐀𝐂 𝐍𝐔𝐄𝐕𝐎, 𝐈𝐋𝐎𝐈𝐋𝐎—𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐥𝐨𝐢𝐥𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 (𝐈𝐒𝐔𝐅𝐒𝐓) 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 ₱𝟏.𝟖𝟗 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟐𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓, 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲’𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐬-𝐏𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐢𝐚𝐳𝐳𝐚, 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 (𝐂𝐈𝐓) 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞.

The event marked the formal handover of equipment and training support under the grant, which aims to modernize ISUFST’s automotive training facilities and strengthen the university’s capacity to deliver industry-relevant education in Western Visayas. The project was made possible through a partnership among ISUFST, the Rotary Club of Iloilo (District 3850), and the Rotary Club of Namweon Central (District 3670, South Korea).

According to ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., the grant represents a major step forward in the university’s technical education agenda. “We thank the Rotary community for supporting our goal of providing students with practical training that aligns with current industry standards,” Siason said.

The grant includes the procurement of modern automotive equipment such as a Heavy-Duty Electric Car Post-Type Lifter, a Light-Duty Scissor-Type Lifter, diesel and gasoline engines with computer boxes and harnesses, welding machines, and a digital oscilloscope. These tools are expected to be fully operational by April 2025.

Dr. Rodel Dosano, Dean of CIT, said the equipment will improve instructional delivery and competency-based learning. “This initiative will significantly enhance our students’ hands-on skills and improve their job readiness after graduation,” Dosano stated.

The project also forms part of AIM Iloilo (Automotive Industry Modernization Project), a three-year extension program that aims to train over 300 students and community members, improve faculty technical skills, and expand local access to automotive services.

Dr. Herman Lagon, ISUFST Director and Primary Rotarian Proponent, highlighted the broader socioeconomic benefits of the project. “This grant addresses both educational gaps and employment needs. It gives our students a clear advantage in starting careers or small-scale enterprises,” Lagon said.

The turnover ceremony gathered representatives from both Philippine and South Korean Rotary Clubs, university administrators, faculty, and students. A ribbon-cutting ceremony and site visit followed the formal handover and deed of donation signing, culminating in a fellowship dinner.

Atty. Peter John Raymund Pacheco, President of the Rotary Club of Iloilo, emphasized the importance of institutional collaboration. “The success of this project shows how partnerships between education and service organizations can create long-term impact,” Pacheco remarked.

Meanwhile, Yunkil Nam, President of the Rotary Club of Namweon Central, reaffirmed his club’s commitment to educational development. “We are pleased to work with ISUFST in advancing vocational training. This project reflects our shared vision of empowering communities through education,” Nam said.

The grant was finalized following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on October 3, 2024, after a site inspection and formal gathering at Diversion 21 Hotel in Iloilo City. The same as then, turning over event was attended by over 30 Rotarians and Rotary Annes from both.

With the equipment now turned over and deployment underway, ISUFST is set to raise the bar in automotive education across the region. (Ricky Ramos, Herman Lagon, and Jose Eugene Salazar/PAMMCO)

February 17 2025

Animal Science Students Create Handcrafted Soap from Carabao Milk

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, International Affairs, Research

Soap Making from Carabao Milk!

BSA-4 Animal Science students explored the innovative application of carabao milk beyond food by creating handcrafted milk-based soap. This laboratory activity is part of the Elective 412 – Dairy Production, Management, and Processing course under Instr. Jessa D. Alico.

This activity highlights the innovative use of carabao milk in non-food products, showcasing its potential in value-added dairy processing.

#MilkProcessing #CarabaoMilk #SoapMaking #BSA4AnimalScience #InnovativeDairy #HandsOnLearning

February 14 2025

Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) and National Kaoshiung University of Science and Technology (NKUST) virtually signed a Memorandum of Understanding

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, International Affairs, Research

Strengthening global ties for academic excellence and collaboration! . On February 12, 2025, at 11 AM PST, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) and National Kaoshiung University of Science and Technology (NKUST) virtually signed a Memorandum of Understanding to foster academic cooperation. Present at this historic event were Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., CESO VI, University President of ISUFST, Prof. Cheng-Di Ding, Dean of the College of Hydrosphere Science of NKUST, Dr. Joan Belga, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), Dr. Jeanette Bayona, Director of International Affairs and Linkages, and Dr. Rolindo Demo-os, Dean of the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, alongside other distinguished faculty members from ISUFST.

This partnership opens doors for greater opportunities in research, education, and global exchange.

#ISUFSTxNKUST #AcademicPartnership #InternationalCollaboration“