Recognitions

August 29 2025

ISUFST’s Director Biñas Appointed as New RIMC Chair to Lead DSWD VI Monitoring Body

Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Extension Director Joana Paula B. Biñas has been elected as the new chairperson of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region VI’s Regional Independent Monitoring Committee (RIMC) during its 2nd Quarter Meeting held this week.

Biñas, who now represents the academe and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), succeeds Norma Chan-Pongan of CORE Philippines Inc. in the role. With members from NGOs and the academe, the RIMC provides independent monitoring of programs such as the 4Ps to improve delivery of services across Western Visayas.

Biñas stressed the importance of SUCs in this effort. “I am honored to be elected chairperson. SUCs have the duty to share research, expertise, and engagement to help programs like the 4Ps,” she said.

She noted that collaboration within the group will ensure the program adapts to family needs and lasts for the long term. “By combining the strengths of government agencies, SUCs, and communities, the 4Ps can further contribute to improving education, health, and livelihood, fostering a stronger and more inclusive nation,” Biñas emphasized.

Alongside Biñas, Joy De Pallo of Goducate–APIIS was elected as vice chairperson, while Daisy B. Ibieza of Guimaras State University will serve as secretary.

The committee also discussed the Regional Convergence Plan, updates on projects of Camp Goducate–Asia Pacific Institute of International Studies (APIIS), and preparations for the Regional Convergence Committee and RIMC Field Visit scheduled for October 2025.

ISUFST views Biñas’s election as RIMC chair as an extension of its commitment to community service, social responsibility, and inclusive nation-building. The role echoes the university’s VGMO and its alignment with SDG goals in education, health, and poverty reduction.

Over the next three years, she will lead efforts to make social welfare programs more transparent and effective for families. This recognition underscores ISUFST’s growing impact in both fisheries science and community empowerment. (Photos from DSWD VI/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

August 19 2025

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

ISUFST Admin Gender and Development, Recognitions

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

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

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

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

Among the featured gender-focused presentations were:

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

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

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

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

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

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

August 4 2025

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

ISUFST Admin International Affairs, Recognitions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

July 29 2025

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

ISUFST Admin International Affairs, Recognitions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

July 25 2025

Celebrating 78 Years of Excellence, Service, and Transformative Education

ISUFST Admin International Affairs, Recognitions

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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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June 18 2025

ISUFST joins Global SDG Rankings, Shines in 5 Key Areas

ISUFST Admin International Affairs, Recognitions

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)

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)