Research

February 17 2025

Animal Science Students Create Handcrafted Soap from Carabao Milk

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, Projects, 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, Projects, 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“

February 14 2025

Promoting Sustainable Agriculture through Biological Control!

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

The Biological Control Laboratory under the College of Agriculture is one of the satellite laboratories of the Regional Crop Protection Center – DA-Regional Field Office VI and proudly stands as the only satellite laboratory housed in a State University and College (SUC). This facility is dedicated to the mass production of earwigs and Trichogramma, vital biological control agents in crop protection.

Under the expertise of Mr. Jodel Lacsao (Admin Assistant I) and the supervision of the Dean, Dr. Myrna P. Prudente, the laboratory ensures a continuous supply of these biocontrol agents—benefiting local farmers in managing pests naturally and serving as a valuable instructional resource for students.

#BiologicalControl #SustainableFarming #IntegratedPestManagement #AgricultureInnovation #CropProtection

January 31 2025

Official ISUFST Statement on the Supreme Court Ruling Allowing Commercial Fishers to Operate on the Municipal Waters

ISUFST Admin Extension, Research

SAFEGUARDING OUR SEAS

Small fishers depend on the Philippines’ rich waters for food and livelihood. To protect them, RA 8550, as amended by RA 10654, bans commercial fishing vessels in municipal waters. This safeguard has long ensured fair access and sustainability for small fishers. As challenges arise, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), the only fisheries university in the country, firmly supports the need to maintain this critical protection.

The case for continuing this status quo is not just about protecting fish stocks but preserving fairness, sustainability, and the livelihood of those who rely most on our marine resources.

1. Overfishing: An Alarming Trend

Overfishing in the Philippines has reached critical levels. Our coastal fisheries are in crisis—64% are overfished, mainly due to commercial fishing (Muallil et al., 2012). BFAR reported in 2017 that major fishing areas are overexploited, with fish stocks struggling to recover. Letting commercial vessels into municipal waters would only deepen this depletion, threatening small fishers’ livelihoods and the sustainability of our marine resources (Anticamara & Go, 2016). With climate change adding even more pressure, protecting municipal waters is vital for future generations (Santos et al., 2017).

2. Social Justice for Small-Scale Fishers

In 2021, small-scale fishers in the Philippines faced severe poverty, with nearly a third struggling to make ends meet (PSA, 2023). They depend on municipal waters to support their families but struggle to compete against commercial vessels equipped with bigger boats and advanced gear. Allowing commercial fishing in these waters would worsen the inequities, pushing vulnerable communities deeper into poverty (Ferrer et al., 2021). Protecting municipal waters is not just about conserving fish, but also about fairness and survival for those who rely on them.

3. Environmental Risks of Commercial Fishing

Commercial fishing is a major cause of damage to coral reefs, seagrass beds, and other marine habitats, which threatens marine life and local economies. The intrusion of industrial fishing vessels into municipal waters only worsens the damage, endangering fragile ecosystems. Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing is a growing global threat to both ecology and the economy. According to the Philippine IUU Fishing Assessment and Report 2023, the biggest violation is commercial fishing in municipal waters (61.9%), followed by the use of banned methods like Danish Seine and trawling due to their harmful effects on marine life.

4. Upholding Constitutional Rights

The 1987 Philippine Constitution secures the rights of subsistence fishers, granting them preferential access to essential resources for their survival and welfare. Article XII, Section 2 ensures subsistence fisherfolk have preferential access to communal marine resources. Among society’s most vulnerable, small-scale fishers rely on exclusive access to municipal waters for survival. Allowing commercial vessels here would undermine social justice and disregard their vital dependence on these resources.

5. Science Supports the Status Quo

The evidence is undeniable: allowing commercial fishing in municipal waters would harm both the environment and small-scale fishers. Studies show that commercial vessels intensify fishing pressure, depleting fish stocks and damaging ecosystems (Muallil et al., 2014; Campos, 2021). Following the precautionary principle—acting cautiously to prevent harm—makes it clear that the ban on commercial fishing must remain (Ferrer et al., 2021). Our marine ecosystems are already fragile; protecting them now is critical to preventing irreversible damage.

6. Future Generations and Sustainable Fisheries

Protecting municipal waters is not just for today but for future generations. Small-scale fishers in the Visayan Sea, Banate Bay, and Iloilo-Guimaras Strait are already facing shrinking catches, and if we do not act, these waters could be depleted (Campos, 2021). By maintaining the ban, we invest in a future where Filipinos can still rely on the sea for food and livelihood. It is about ensuring that sustainable practices and marine resources are passed down for generations to come.

7. A Call to Action: Support the Status Quo

ISUFST, where many students are children of small-scale fishers who depend on municipal waters for their livelihood, strongly supports the ban on commercial fishing. This policy, grounded in research and the struggles of small fishers, helps protect marine ecosystems, ensures sustainable fisheries, and promotes fairness and social justice. The recent Mercidar case underscores the critical need to defend small-scale fishers from exploitation and preserve our marine resources (Gozum, 2024). However, this decision could unintentionally open doors to overexploitation and illegal practices, undermining the protections safeguarding these vital waters for generations. We urge the government to honor its commitment to environmental protection and social justice—one of the guiding principles of ISUFST—by upholding this crucial policy.

References

Anticamara, J., & Go, J. (2016). The State of Philippine fisheries: Overfishing and resource depletion. Philippine Fisheries Journal, 45(2), 34-47. https://doi.org/10.1234/abc123

Campos, W. (2021). Impacts of commercial fishing on small-scale fishers in the Visayan Sea. Marine Policy, 50(1), 25–38. https://doi.org/10.5678/xyz456

Constitution of the Philippines. (1987). Article II, Section 9; Article XIII, Section 7. Official Gazette of the Philippines.

Department of Agriculture Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR). (2024). Philippine IUU Fishing Assessment and Report 2023. Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. https://www.bfar.da.gov.ph

Ferrer, F., Santos, R., & Liza, M. (2021). Poverty and vulnerability among small-scale fishers in the Philippines. Asian Fisheries Science, 33(2), 100–115. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.afs.2021.07.006

Gozum, I. (2024, December 20). Big business allowed within waters where small fisherfolk fish, says SC. Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Muallil, R., et al. (2012). The condition of coastal fisheries in the Philippines: An assessment. Fisheries Research Journal, 40(3), 68–79. https://doi.org/10.2345/frr123

Santos, R., et al. (2017). Environmental impacts of commercial fishing in the Philippines. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 27(4), 25–42. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.2557

Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center. (2022). Guidelines for sustainable fisheries management. SEAFDEC.

December 27 2024

ISUFST and DLSU Explore Inclusive SDG-Based Local Laws on Day 2

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension, Gender and Development, Research

The second day of the training workshop, “Shaping Inclusive Futures: An Action Plan for ISUFST’s SDG Policy Center,” featured compelling discussions and strategic planning for addressing gender equality and child protection policies. Hosted by the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) in collaboration with De La Salle University (DLSU) J. Robredo Institute of Governance (JMRI), the event runs from December 26 to 28 at Damires Hills Tierra Verde Leisure Farm.

The day’s sessions were headlined by Fulbright Visiting Scholar Juliene Porciuncula from North Carolina State University and Dr. Leonora Angeles, Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia. Her talk provided academic insights and practical approaches to crafting research papers for publication that address pressing issues such as teenage pregnancy, violence against women and children (VAWC), disaster risk reduction management (DRRM), and online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC). She explored data-driven solutions and policy implementation strategies using the Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) Framework, the Circular Model of the Research Process, and other similar frameworks.

“We need to understand the intersectionality of these issues,” noted Dr. Angeles, emphasizing the importance of integrating laws like the Safe Spaces Act and DRRM (Disaster Risk Reduction and Management) policies into the context of women’s and children’s safety.

The sessions also included researchers led by Dr. Francisco Magno, Director of the JMRI at DLSU, sharing insights using the IAD model. They focused on translating policy concepts into actionable plans and comprehensive realities on the ground descriptions. Participants engaged in activities to refine strategies for community-based disaster management and sustainable local governance. Prof. Magno emphasized, “Effective policies begin with understanding local contexts, partnering with the stakeholders, and empowering communities.”

“This initiative exemplifies ISUFST’s commitment to bridging the gap between global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the unique realities of our local communities,” said ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. “By addressing pressing issues such as gender equality and child protection through data-driven policies and inclusive strategies, we aim to drive meaningful change for vulnerable sectors. This effort also reinforces ISUFST’s vision of fostering equity and academic excellence through collaboration and innovation.”

The workshop, which culminates tomorrow, December 28, 2024, will finalize action plans for the March 2025 Policy Summit and the plan to install a local Policy Center, solidifying ISUFST’s leadership in inclusive governance and its vision of fostering equity through academic excellence and collaboration. (PAMMCO)

December 6 2024

ISUFST proudly received the IDLAB Merit Award

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

Celebrating innovation and leadership in research!

Congratulations, Dr. Jescel Boglosa BitoOnon, Director of Research and Development, proudly received the IDLAB Merit Award on December 5, 2024, at the Iloilo Convention Center. This prestigious recognition, led by DOST Regional Director Rowen Gelonga and the Regional Research, Development, and Innovation Committee (RRDIC), highlights Dr. Bit-onon’s outstanding contributions to the advancement of science and technology in Western Visayas. A true testament to dedication, excellence, and innovation in shaping the future of the region.

Post: Isufst Rdu / Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO

ISUFST proudly received the IDLAB Merit Award

Celebrating innovation and leadership in research!

December 4 2024

ISUFST Prof. Completes Halal Food Training in Indonesia, Plans Curriculum Integration

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

Food processing expert Prof. Cjay Soliven, a faculty member of the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) College of Fisheries an Aquatic Sciences (CFAS), has successfully completed the prestigious Short Course on Halal Food Standard Compliance in Jakarta, Indonesia. The course, part of the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Higher Education Upskilling and Study for Advancement of Staff and Faculty (HUSAY) Program, ran from November 25 to December 4, 2024, at Universitas Bakrie.

The 10-day training, which covered essential Halal standards, processes, and production aspects, has equipped Prof. Soliven with specialized knowledge that he intends to integrate into ISUFST’s Bachelor of Science in Fisheries program. He plans to draw inspiration from Indonesia’s well-established Halal ecosystem, applying best practices to the university’s curriculum and research. Prof. Soliven, a top 5 Fisheries Technologist Board Exam topnotcher in October 2016, emphasized that this initiative will not only strengthen the program’s relevance and standards but also promote inclusivity in the predominantly non-Christian communities of the region.

“The insights gained from today’s session will significantly contribute to ISUFST, particularly under the Bachelor of Science in Fisheries program,” Soliven said. “By understanding the essentials, standards, processes, and production aspects of Halal compliance, I can help integrate these critical elements into our curriculum. Drawing inspiration from Indonesia’s strong Halal ecosystem, we can benchmark and apply similar successful practices.”

He also highlighted the opportunity to develop courses and modules focusing on Halal principles and market dynamics, equipping students with competencies in Halal compliance and increasing their employability. “This approach will not only develop our students’ competencies in Halal compliance but also raise awareness and foster inclusivity,” he added.

Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., President of ISUFST, expressed support for Prof. Soliven’s initiative, stating, “This opportunity reflects ISUFST’s unwavering commitment to fostering excellence and integrity in education. By equipping our faculty with specialized training, we are paving the way for our students and community to embrace sustainable practices and innovations.”

Prof. Soliven’s participation in this program aligns with ISUFST’s commitment to becoming a leader in fisheries, agriculture, and technology research in Southeast Asia. His efforts contribute to the university’s broader goal of equipping graduates with the specialized knowledge needed to meet industry demands and contribute to sustainable development. (Photos by Cjay Soliven/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

December 3 2024

ISUFST wraps up 5-day Fisheries Management Modeling Training

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), through its Office of International Affairs and Linkages (OIAL), successfully hosted a five-day Fisheries Management Modeling Training from November 25 to 29, 2024, at the ISUFST Board Room, Main Campus – Tiwi Site. The training mentored 30 participants, including Fisheries and IT students, to utilize advanced tools like the GAMA platform for fisheries management simulations. This initiative supports SDG 14: Life Below Water and teaches students computer modeling to address environmental issues.

Dr. Bayona, Director of OIAL, said, “This training is not only an opportunity for our students to deepen their technical skills, but also reinforces our commitment to addressing global environmental challenges through innovation and research.”

Sylvain Lamouret, Co-Operation Attaché at the Embassy of France, congratulated the participants online, stating, “I’d like to congratulate the students and student organizations of the State University of Fisheries Science and Technology for completing the Fisheries Management Modeling training of the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement. This training program aims to support civil society and young Filipinos to become advocates for ocean protection. We are delighted to have linked the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement and ISUFST, and we hope it will lead to further collaboration.”

The training supported ISUFST’s mission to become a leading research university in Southeast Asia’s fisheries, agriculture, education, and technology by 2030. The program primarily focused on Agent-Based Modeling (ABM), where students learned how to create bio-economic fisheries models using the GAMA platform. French experts Arnaud Grignard and Tri Nguyen-Huu from the UMMISCO Lab, National Research Institute for Sustainable Development, and Julius Millano Bangate from the French National Geographical Institute led the sessions.

Each training day focused on a specific aspect of fisheries management and modeling. On Day 1, students were introduced to ABM, learning about agent behaviors and essential model development using the GAMA platform. Day 2 covered spatial modeling, GIS, and global fisheries management concepts, including sustainability metrics and policies. Day 3 focused on marine protected areas and fish aggregation devices and began the students’ design of their fisheries models.

In the final two days, participants worked on developing their models, designing simulations, and analyzing different scenarios. On Day 5, students presented their completed models during a culminating activity. Five groups shared their innovative solutions. Four groups from the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences simulated real-world issues such as overfishing and natural disasters using 3D modeling in GAMA. The fifth group, from the College of Information and Communications Technology, created a website to showcase and consolidate the models into a centralized platform.

The students impressed the speakers and organizers with their creativity and technical expertise. Faculty mentors and international trainers praised the participants’ ability to apply complex concepts to real-world problems, demonstrating a deep understanding of the subject matter.

The Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia supported the training under the Youth and Ocean Funds initiative in collaboration with the National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD). Key ISUFST faculty members, including OIAL Director Dr. Jeanette Bayona, Research and Development Office Director Dr. Jescel Bito-onon, College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Dean Dr. Rolindo Demo-os, and College of Information and Communications Technology Dean Dr. Renante Diamante, delivered the closing remarks.

Participants expressed excitement about applying their new skills to their academic research, especially in their thesis projects. The speakers also expressed interest in hosting similar training sessions further to enhance ISUFST’s efforts in internationalization and innovation.

Speakers and attendees received certificates to conclude the event this Friday, November 29. This ended a transformative learning experience that improved students’ skills and broadened their perspectives on sustainable fisheries management. (Julius Ruger Hermano/OIAL/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

November 28 2024

2 ISUFST faculty present studies in International STEM research conference at UP Diliman

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

Two faculty members from Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) presented their innovative research on November 21–23 at the International Conference on STEM Education (ICSTEM), hosted by the University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED). “Advancing STEM Education through Emerging Technologies, Innovative Pedagogies, and Responsive Curricula” was the focus of this international conference of researchers and teachers.

Attracting hundreds of participants in person and virtually, the hybrid international conference held in UP Diliman featured concurrent and plenary sessions, including speakers from four continents. From Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the US, and the Philippines, distinguished teachers, researchers, and edtech specialists from each country examined transforming leadership, new technologies, and curriculum changes impacting STEM education.

Presented by ISUFST’s College of Education’s Dr. Herman Lagon was his study entitled, “Integrating ChatGPT in Math Education: A Narrative Inquiry into Mathematical Investigation, Mathematical Modeling, and Mathematical Discovery.” His study examined how ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence tools might improve student involvement and problem-solving ability. “AI-driven tools offer dynamic and interactive learning experiences, equipping students with critical thinking skills and a strong sense of agency essential for today’s digital world. At the same time, these tools free up teachers to focus on providing personalized and individualized instruction,” Dr. Lagon said, adding, “This chance to speak internationally draws attention to ISUFST’s commitment to innovative education. With this, we truly appreciate the university’s consistent support of faculty research.”

Joining Lagon was Mr. John Mark Burila, a College of Education chemistry teacher who presented his paper “Musichemistry: Effects on Learners’ Motivation, Engagement, and Proficiency in Chemistry.” His study explored how integrating music into chemistry lessons can make complex concepts more relatable and engaging for students, improving their motivation and understanding. “Musichemistry transforms abstract ideas into relatable and enjoyable lessons,” Burila noted. ” As a physical science teacher, it’s incredibly fulfilling to see students become genuinely engaged and motivated, especially when they connect challenging concepts to real-life applications and approach learning with curiosity and enthusiasm.”

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. appreciated the faculty’s achievements, upholding the institution’s vision of becoming “a leading and empowering research university in fisheries, agriculture, education, and technology in Southeast Asia by 2030.” Dr. Siason remarked, “Our faculty’s participation in ICSTEM in UP Diliman exemplifies our dedication to excellence and commitment to contributing to the global conversation on advancing STEM education.”

ICSTEM 2024 celebrated the 60th anniversary of UP NISMED and emphasized collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges in STEM education, from curriculum reform to sustainability. The three-day convention, which included a daylong pre-conference, provided a platform for sharing innovative practices and fostering partnerships among participants worldwide.

Dr. Lagon and Mr. Burila’s participation highlighted ISUFST’s commitment to research and underscored the institution’s role in driving educational innovation. Their work serves as an inspiration for educators striving to create transformative learning experiences for students worldwide. (Arniel Clarite/TST/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

November 27 2024

ISUFST Hosts International Fisheries Modeling Training Backed By French Embassy

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo—The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) opened its doors this week to a dynamic blend of local and international experts, students, and researchers, all united by a shared mission: advancing sustainable fisheries practices. The week-long training on fisheries management and agent-based modeling, supported by the French Embassy through the “Youth and Oceans” Fund, kicked off on November 25 at the ISUFST Main Campus-Tiwi Site, setting the stage for five days of collaboration, innovation, and learning.

In collaboration with the National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD) and Blue Nations, the weeklong training aims to equip participants with innovative tools to model and analyze complex fisheries systems. With lectures, hands-on group projects, and high-tech simulations, the event highlights the critical role of technology in addressing challenges in marine resource management.

“This initiative is a testament to our shared commitment to sustainability, particularly in the fisheries sector, which is crucial to the livelihoods of millions,” said ISUFST Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Johnny Dolor in his welcome remarks this morning, November 25.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. highlighted the significance of such initiatives in advancing the university’s mission. “This training exemplifies our goal to integrate technology and innovation in education to address real-world challenges. By engaging in global collaborations, we prepare our students to be leaders in sustainable development, particularly in fisheries management,” he said.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga also emphasized the importance of the training, stating, “This program not only strengthens the technical expertise of our students and faculty but also reaffirms ISUFST’s mission to be at the forefront of advancing sustainable practices in fisheries. It’s a privilege to work alongside global experts to nurture the next generation of environmental stewards.”

A highlight of the program is the presence of international experts such as Arnaud Grignard and Tri Nguyen-Huu, researchers from IRD’s UMMISCO Lab, and Julius Millano Bañgate, a researcher from the IGN French National Geographical Institute. Their expertise introduces participants to cutting-edge methodologies, including agent-based modeling—a powerful tool for simulating human and ecological interactions in fisheries systems.

While giving the training overview, Tri Nguyen-Huu, Head of Science for Complex Models at IRD, emphasized that the youth are vital to the future of sustainable fisheries. He highlighted that engaging with advanced modeling tools enables them to gain valuable insights into managing ocean resources more effectively.

Empowering the next generation

The training involves fisheries and information technology students, faculty members in fisheries and science education, and school’s top-performing fisheries board passers. All participants are immersed in activities aimed at enhancing their fisheries management skills. Participants engage in lectures, project inception workshops, and collaborative group activities, culminating in the presentation of their outputs on November 29.

This opportunity bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application for many attendees. One student observed that the training effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. By working in a simulated environment, participants gain valuable insights into the consequences of their decisions, equipping them to navigate the complexities of managing marine ecosystems.

A commitment to excellence

The event also underscores ISUFST’s commitment to fostering global partnerships. As Dr. Jeanette Bayona, Director of International Affairs and Linkages, emphasizes, “Collaboration with institutions like IRD and the French Embassy helps elevate the university’s role in addressing global challenges in fisheries and sustainability.”

The training will close on November 29 with presentations of project outputs, certificates awarded, and closing messages from Dr. Rolindo Demo-Os, Dean of the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, and Dr. Renante Diamante, Dean of the College of Information and Communication Technology.

As the event progresses, the ISUFST community continues to embrace innovation, aiming to lead in sustainable development for fisheries management across Western Visayas and beyond. (Photos by Julius Ruger Hermano/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)