Research

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 19 2025

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

ISUFST Admin Activities, Gender and Development, Research

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 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 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)

June 25 2025

ISUFST Scientist Advocates for Marine Biodiversity at One Ocean Science Congress in France

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

In a first on the world stage, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) was featured on the global stage through its faculty researcher, Dr. Mary Mar Noblezada Payne of its College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, during the One Ocean Science Congress (OOSC) on June 3 to 6, 2025, in Nice, France. As a top-tier scientific forerunner to the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), the event convened over 2,000 scientists globally to share critical concerns for the world’s oceans and share science-informed responses to the climate and biodiversity crises.

Hosted by France’s National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and French Research Institute for Exploitation of the Sea (IFREMER), the congress was designed to bring political leaders and international stakeholders scientific expertise relevant to policy decision-making in Sustainable Development Goal 14—“Life Below Water.” The OOSC was a designated special event of the UNOC3, which took place from June 9 to 13, also in Nice.

Dr. Payne, a Scientific Committee on Oceanic Research (SCOR) scholar and principal investigator of ISUFST’s DOST-PCAARRD Biodiversity and Molecular Laboratory, presented “Unveiling Marine Biodiversity in the Philippines through DNA Metabarcoding: A Contribution to Global Biodiversity Discovery and Inventory.” Her presentation featured the rich yet threatened marine ecosystems of the Philippines and emphasized the significance of genomic tools for conservation, biodiversity evaluation, and sustainability activities in Southeast Asia.

“This opportunity was more than just a platform to present data,” said Dr. Payne. “It was a chance to show that institutions like ISUFST, though geographically small, are globally significant contributors to ocean science and solutions. Our work feeds into a global effort to understand and protect marine life before it’s too late.”

ISUFST’s participation is unique since it is in line with its mandates being the country’s first and only fisheries university, authorized by CHED and a number of international accrediting bodies for quality fisheries education, community development, and environmental innovations. By virtue of its inclusive graduate and undergraduate programs, ISUFST remains a constructor of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through its activities on research, international connections, and community-centered extension work.

Additionally, other Filipino researchers from the UP Marine Science Institute, UP Visayas, Catanduanes State University, and from Oceana Philippines and Sulubaai Environmental Foundation were in attendance during the Congress. Chaperoned by researchers from Norway, the USA, and France, they shared their knowledge, provided case studies, and were involved in more than 30 roundtable discussions and townhalls on climate resilience, marine policy, and science diplomacy.

Hosted at historic venues in Nice including Quai Infernet and Palais des Expositions, the OOSC included over 500 oral presentations and 600 scientific posters. The congress concluded with world-streamed keynote lectures highlighting the necessity of safeguarding marine ecosystems as a common global resource.

Dr. Payne’s participation not only brought with it ISUFST’s growing presence in the international science community but also opened avenues for potential future collaborations in the discovery of biodiversity and genomics. Her participation affirms the university’s vision of becoming not only an institution that succeeds in the country but also takes a leading role in delivering sustainable and science-enriched solutions on the global level. (Herman Lagon/ PAMMCO)

May 13 2025

ISUFST Hosts Meet Supporting Faculty Research in Region VI

ISUFST Admin Activities, Research

Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo (May 9, 2025)—In a collective effort to support faculty research across Western Visayas, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) welcomed colleagues from nearby universities for a crucial gathering at Paler Hall on their Main Campus-Tiwi Site here today. The event brought together specialists, finance officers, and university leaders from ISUFST, Guimaras State University (GSU), and the University of Antique (UA). Their goal was simple but vital: to find better ways to harmonize the workload of teachers so they can also give a premium to research and innovation.

This meeting was a joint effort by ISUFST and the Western Visayas Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (WCCIEERD). Both understand how tough it can be for faculty members—sometimes the obstacles can seem overwhelming. Unclear policies about workload, limited budgets, and inconsistent incentives often leave teachers feeling tired, supported, and unsure of how to pursue their research dreams. The gathering aimed to listen, share ideas, and find practical solutions that would make research more accessible and less stressful for those eager to grow in their fields.

One of the main ideas discussed was adopting a unified, regional approach to faculty workload—specifically, an 18-unit workload that many believe could help teachers better balance their teaching duties, community work, and research. The hope is that with clearer policies and more support, teachers will feel motivated and empowered to contribute to regional development through their research efforts.

Several practical strategies were shared to help make this vision a reality. These included maintaining or reducing current overloads for both full-time and part-time teachers, consolidating retiree and resigned faculty positions into one role over the next five years, reviewing organizational structures to lessen administrative burdens, and streamlining academic programs by closing less popular courses or reducing sections. There was even a suggestion to increase funds for overload and part-time teaching starting next year, if resources allow.

During the discussions, Dr. Greta Gabinete from West Visayas State University (WVSU) shared her university’s experience with implementing the 18-unit workload. She explained how this approach allows teachers to better manage their responsibilities and focus more on research and community outreach—activities that truly help regional growth and development.

Meanwhile, WVCIEERD Consortium Director Dr. Carmelo Ambut from Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) shared how their university successfully adopted similar policies on a gradual basis. His stories showed how these changes have helped their faculty become more productive, happier, and more fulfilled in their roles.

For his part, ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., highlighted his full support for the initiative. He stressed that professors and instructors need time and space to teach, research, and help their communities. “When we give our teachers the understanding and support to grow through research and professional development, they can truly make a difference…. Their dedication to innovation and social impact will truly help build stronger, more compassionate communities for all of us,” he said.

In the late morning and afternoon, participants focused on working through their school’s action plans—crafting, presenting, and offering constructive feedback. The day wrapped up with a shared commitment to carry these plans into action once everyone returns to their respective schools and communities. (Photos by Ricky Ramos/Text by Herman Lagon/ PAMMCO/Published by Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS)

April 7 2025

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

ISUFST Admin Projects, 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)

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.