Extension

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 1 2025

Forging Partnerships, Empowering Communities: ISUFST and CPD Region VI Seal MOU

ISUFST Admin Extension, Gender and Development, Projects, Research

In a sincere effort to create stronger and more inclusive communities, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) has formally partnered with the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Region VI via a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on July 31, 2025, at the ISUFST Board Room, Main Campus – Poblacion Site.

But this partnership goes beyond paperwork. It’s a shared commitment—a genuine pledge to work together in promoting population and development programs that uplift lives and create meaningful change across Western Visayas.

Mr. Julius Rugger Hermano from the International Affairs and Linkages Office graciously greeted everyone, setting the day’s tone. He genuinely and proudly recognized the presence of the attendees and participants, showing the university’s enthusiasm for this new phase of partnership and community influence.

Mr. Roilo Vincent G. Laguna, Population Program Officer III/OIC PPO IV of CPD Region VI, established the focus by outlining the partnership’s objectives, highlighting the significance of community-oriented strategies in addressing population challenges and fostering inclusive development.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr., in his message of support, emphasized how collaborations like this help turn academic institutions into active players in nation-building.

CPD Region VI Regional Director Harold Alfred P. Marshall echoed this sentiment, highlighting the value of strategic partnerships in bringing about real change on the ground.

The CPD Region VI team was also represented by Mr. Jarryd Roy Diotay, Community Development Facilitator Officer, and Ms. Rachelle E. Labordo, Admin Officer V—both expressing their optimism for the initiatives that lie ahead.

Also present during the event were ISUFST’s key officials:

Dr. Lenirose B. Mondero – Director, Gender and Development (GAD) Office

Dr. Jeanette G. Bayona – Director, International Affairs and Linkages Office

Dr. Kharlle John Huatea – University Physician

Ms. Edeline Joy A. Brito – Information Officer 1 on behalf of Dr. Herman M. Lagon – Director, Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications Office (PAMMCO).

The ceremony concluded on an emotional note with the signing of the MOU—marked by handshakes, exchanged smiles, and a group photograph that reflected not just external expressions but also a feeling of hope and common purpose. It was more than a ceremony; it symbolized the start of something significant for the people and communities this collaboration aims to assist.

With this partnership, ISUFST and CPD Region VI are opting to advance collectively—not only in documentation but also through tangible actions. Their common goal: to initiate actions that extend past mere awareness and promote genuine, enduring change. It seeks to cultivate communities that are not only knowledgeable but also resilient, healthier, and capable of directing their own destinies.

At its essence, this collaboration highlights the strength of connection—showcasing the results when organizations go beyond their limits and engage with communities in their own environments. True growth occurs not alone, but alongside the individuals we support.(𝙀𝙙𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙅𝙤𝙮 𝘽𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙤/𝙋𝘼𝙈𝙈𝘾𝙊)

#ISUFST #ISUFSTISDAFIRST #ISUFSTCOMMUNITY

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 14 2025

BSHM Interns make Courtesy Call to University President before Taiwan Deployment

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension

On July 12, 2025, seven Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) students paid a courtesy call to the Office of the President before embarking on their six-month international internship at the prestigious Regent Hotel in Taiwan.

University President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr. warmly welcomed the students and offered them meaningful advice and reminders to guide them throughout their internship. He also assured them of the institution’s unwavering support as they take this significant step toward their professional growth and global exposure.

Accompanying the students during the courtesy call were the BSHM Internship Coordinator and Program Head, Dr. Peter John V. Velasco, who has been instrumental in preparing the students for this opportunity. Also present was the Dean of the College, Dr. Ricardo J. Paborada Jr., who will personally accompany the students to Taiwan to ensure their safe and smooth deployment on July 14, 2025.

The students and their respective department assignments at Regent Hotel are as follows:

Front Office Department: Jaira Garcia and Wilfred Joyce Bañez

Food & Beverage Department: Lee Christian Badando, Kurt Daniel Teves, and Alyssa Sustento

Housekeeping Department: Amira Benguan and Lea Mae Palma

This overseas internship marks a milestone in the students’ academic journey and reflects the university’s commitment to providing transformative learning experiences beyond the classroom.

#cmfamileads
#isufstisdafirst
#ISUFST_ISDA_BEST
Photo by: Sir Rholan Mark Basaygan

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 joins Global SDG Rankings, Shines in 5 Key Areas

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension

First-time milestone celebrates the university’s commitment to people, the planet, and purpose.

There’s a fresh wave of pride sweeping through the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), and for good reason. In a milestone moment for the province and the country, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) has entered the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings—its debut in the global list of universities driving real-world change.

Ranked in the 1501+ bracket out of 2,318 institutions worldwide, ISUFST’s inclusion, announced on June 18, 2025, is a meaningful nod to its roots in community service and its growing role in promoting science, education, and sustainability at both local and global levels.

As the country’s only state university specializing in fisheries, ISUFST’s entry into THE’s global sustainability scoreboard marks a turning point. The rankings are not about fame or prestige—they measure how well a university is living up to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the world’s blueprint for a fairer, greener, and more peaceful future. For ISUFST, it is an affirmation that its years of quiet but committed work are being seen.

And what a debut it was. The university earned distinction in five SDGs, demonstrating that, although new to the rankings game, it’s no novice when it comes to purpose-driven education.

The university’s strongest showing came in SDG 14: Life Below Water, where it ranked between 301–400 worldwide. That makes perfect sense—fisheries and marine science have long been ISUFST’s heart and soul. From coastal biodiversity research to community-based marine conservation programs, the university has made waves not only in academia but in the lives of fisherfolk and coastal dwellers.

Meanwhile, SDG 4: Quality Education saw ISUFST placed in the 1001–1500 bracket. But numbers do not tell the whole story. What stands out is the university’s unwavering drive to bring education to the margins—to equity-seeking learners, to students in far-flung barangays, and to every young person who dares to dream of a better life through learning.

The university also made meaningful strides in three more areas:

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (601–800), reflecting its advocacy for ethical governance, anti-corruption practices, and education for peace;

SDG 15: Life on Land (801+), in recognition of its agro-ecological research and land stewardship programs;

and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals (1501+), which celebrates ISUFST’s many linkages—with government, civil society, and international partners alike.

For ISUFST, the rankings affirm that its blend of science and service is making waves beyond Western Visayas. New to the global stage, its journey is powered by grit, growth, and real impact.

CHED seems to agree. Just this year, the Commission on Higher Education recognized ISUFST for excellence in fisheries education, peace education, internationalization, Indigenous Peoples (IP) education, and community extension. The national spotlight has slowly but surely turned toward this institution—and now the world is catching on, too.

The Philippines also had a standout year, with 121 universities making it to the 2025 Impact Rankings—double last year’s count. This puts the country first in Southeast Asia and third in the world, behind only India and Pakistan, reflecting the steady rise of Filipino higher education on the global stage.

Now on its sixth year, the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings remains the only international system that gauges how well schools contribute to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with SDG 17 on partnerships as a required benchmark.

At home, ISUFST continues to walk the talk. With five campuses, 8,500 students, and 280 dedicated faculty, half of which are doctors in their respective specializations, ISUFST stays true to its mission: growing skilled, socially conscious professionals ready to help build a more sustainable world.

The global ranking may be humble, but the message is loud and clear—ISUFST is making its mark where it matters. It signals a university coming into its own—rooted in the soil and sea of Iloilo but reaching farther than ever before. (Herman Lagon/Patrick Lance Nacion/PAMMCO)

June 18 2025

ISUFST Library Receives Donation of Valuable Books

ISUFST Admin 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

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ISUFST Library Receives Donation of Valuable Books

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