Research

September 18 2024

‘Mangingisda Ako, Una ang Seguridad Ko’ Workshop Empowers Banate Bay Fisherfolk

Over 100 fisherfolk from the Municipality of Banate took part in the extension program titled “Mangingisda Ako, Una ang Seguridad Ko,” held on September 13, 2024, at the Agriculture Building in Banate. The training focused on safe navigation, collision regulations, and coastal resource management, aiming to enhance both the safety and environmental awareness of the local fishing community. The initiative was led by Dr. Shiela Picpican, with Dr. Lou Magbanua and Dr. Quin Clarito serving as resource persons, sharing their expertise on maritime safety and sustainable coastal practices. Further, he shared the relevance of preventing illegal fishing activities and the promotion of sustainable fishing technologies. In his opening message, Banate Mayor Peter Paul Gonzales highlighted the importance of the training for the livelihood and safety of fisherfolk. “Programs like these are vital in safeguarding the lives of our fisherfolk while promoting the sustainable use of our coastal resources,” he said. Vice Mayor Filemon Iran echoed his support, emphasizing the need for municipal ordinances on safe navigation and resource protection. He expressed hope for the establishment of long-term policies that would benefit the fishing community and ensure environmental stewardship. Dr. Joana Paula B. Biñas, Director for Extension Services and Development at the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), reinforced the university’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). “Our research-driven and impactful extension projects are aligned with these global goals. This training is part of our efforts to empower fisherfolk and promote sustainable fishing practices,” she said. The training covered essential topics, including navigation rules, the use of navigational aids, communication and lookout skills, and marine environmental protection. Fisherfolk were also educated on sustainable fishing practices to ensure the long-term preservation of Banate Bay’s resources. This event marked the third phase of the “Mangingisda Ako” project, which aims to train all 957 registered fisherfolk in Banate. The project is expected to significantly improve the safety, productivity, and environmental awareness of the local fishing community. (Joana Paula Binas/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)

September 10 2024

ISUFST holds inception meet with DOST-PCAARRD for groundbreaking Php5M-worth Pearl Genes Project

ISUFST Admin Projects, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) hosted the inception meeting for its pioneering research project titled “Population Genetics and Molecular Characterization of Pearl and Other Commercially Important Oysters Using Multigene DNA Analysis” this Monday, September 9, 2024, at the Conference Room of the ISUFST Main Campus-Tiwi Site, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo. The project, funded by the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), is a Php5-million, two-year initiative aimed at enhancing the understanding of commercially valuable oyster species and contributing to the sustainability of the blue economy.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of innovation in research, particularly in projects like this that have direct implications for both the local community and the national economy. “This project, led by Dr. Mary Mar Payne, places ISUFST at the forefront of marine science research. Sterling initiatives like this highlight the significance of faculty-driven innovations that have a tangible impact on the environment and the livelihood of our communities,” Dr. Siason said. He also reminded the team to diligently follow the project’s timelines to ensure timely and successful completion.

The project will focus on the population genetics and molecular characterization of various oyster species, including pearl, winged, tree, hammer, windowpane, and thorny oysters. Using multigene DNA analysis, it aims to identify and classify these species, assess genetic diversity, and develop data-driven strategies for sustainable management. Dr. Payne, the project leader, stressed the objectives and methodologies, explaining the vital role oysters play not just as a food source and in shell craft industries, but also in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems as biofilters and reef builders.

“Our goal is to provide a comprehensive genetic framework that will serve as the foundation for sustainable aquaculture practices. “This project holds great potential to enhance oyster farming, most particularly for pearl production, while promoting conservation efforts and contributing significantly to the blue economy,” Dr. Payne remarked during the meeting.

For her part, Dr. Mari-Ann Acedera, Director of the Marine Resource Research Division (MRRD) of DOST-PCAARRD, provided an in-depth rationale for the partnership. “This project represents a strategic collaboration between ISUFST and PCAARRD to address gaps in species diversity and distribution, ensuring the conservation and sustainable management of oyster populations,” Dr. Acedera said. The project’s outcomes are expected to benefit not only the academic and scientific community but also local oyster farmers and industries.

To note, the Pearl Genes Project is an offshoot of ISUFST’s “BangKa sa KaBuHi Ta” umbrella research thrust, which represents its flagship products—Bangrus, Kasag, Kanding, Bulgan, Hipon, and Talaba—and reflects the university’s role as the “boat of our lives.” This initiative drives innovation and sustainable resource management, with projects like the Pearl Project contributing to local economic growth.

Meanwhile, Ms. Adela Corpuz, Supervising Science Research Specialist of MRRD-PCAARRD, discussed the technical and financial monitoring guidelines essential for maintaining the project’s momentum. “Effective monitoring is crucial for ensuring that the project’s goals are met efficiently and that resources are used responsibly,” Ms. Corpuz noted.

With the growing importance of the blue economy in the country, this research project aims to enhance aquaculture practices by providing insights into species identification, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic relationships. The outcomes will not only contribute to sustainable aquaculture but also promote responsible trade practices and empower local communities involved in the oyster industry.

The inception meeting was attended by key stakeholders from both DOST-PCAARRD and ISUFST, including administrators, researchers, faculty, and project staff, mostly from the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (CFAS), th flagship program of the university. The hybrid format of the meeting also enabled other stakeholders, including community partners and industry representatives, to participate remotely. The collective presence of these stakeholders underscored the shared commitment to ensuring the success of the project. Dr. Payne closed the meeting with a reminder of the project’s far-reaching potential: “This initiative is more than just research—it is a collaborative effort that will shape the future of aquaculture and marine sustainability in our region and beyond.” (Text by Herman Lagon/Photos by Mary Mar Payne and Lagon/PAMMCO)

August 20 2024

ISUFST forging a partnership for cultural preservation

ISUFST Admin Activities, Projects, Research

Mayor Junjun Gonzales of Banate, together with Dr. Joana Paula B. Biñas, ISUFST Director of Extension Services and Community Development, and College of Education’s Dr. Jaspare V. Barrido, Dr. Jovelyn Lindong, and Dr. Zaldy Biñas, collaborates on a new initiative to preserve the municipality’s rich culture and heritage through extension services.

#ISUFST

#isufstisdabest

#banate

#ISUFST

#isufstisdabest

#banate

August 17 2024

Signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Iloilo Provincial Government and ISUFST

ISUFST Admin Activities, Projects, Research

Another First, Historic Collaboration for Innovation and Research:

On August 15, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Iloilo Provincial Government and Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST). The MOA establishes a Research Development and Innovations Partnership and initiates a groundbreaking research project on the induced spawning of African catfish using alternative sources of pituitary glands. Dr. Roy C. Villanueva leads the project, with research specialist Mr. Eli Gene Tisuela supporting the initiative. The signing ceremony, held at Casa Real’s Function Room A, saw Iloilo Provincial Administrator Dr. Raul Bañas representing the provincial government and University President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. representing ISUFST. This partnership marks a new chapter in fostering research and innovation in Iloilo. (Text and photos by Jescel Boglosa BitoOnon/PAMMCO)

August 12 2024

ISUFST Professor completes AIMS Summer Intensive Program in Japan

ISUFST Admin Activities, Projects, Research

A mathematics and science professor at the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), Dr. Herman Lagon, has successfully completed the recently concluded AIMS (Asian International Mobility for Students) Summer Intensive Programme conducted at Hiroshima University, Japan. The program was held under the theme “Future of Higher Learning from Student Perspectives” last August 1-8, 2024.

Dr. Lagon’s participation in the program, which brought together 28 students from various countries, including the Philippines, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, China, Nigeria, and Indonesia, was recognized with a certificate signed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont, Centre Director of SEAMEO RIHED, and Dr. Hotta Taiji, Deputy Executive Director (SGU) and Professor of the IDEC Institute at Hiroshima University. Among the participants, Dr. Lagon was acknowledged as one of the group’s elders, being one of only five participants already engaged in graduate studies. The rest of the cohort comprised senior undergraduate students and leaders from diverse fields such as engineering, environmental science, programming, education, microbiology, agriculture, psychology, history, business, international politics, tourism, and law.

Dr. Lagon led his team in formulating a higher education pitch entitled the Free University Microcredential International Hybrid Program, one of the outputs of the Summer Program. The assessors considered this proposal groundbreaking and designed to democratize education on an unprecedented scale and champion social justice by making it accessible and free for all who wish to enhance their employability. Like its five other counterparts, the team presented it to 200 higher education leaders from different Asian universities under the AIMS network last August 8, 2024, at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Hall at the heart of Hiroshima City. No less than CHED IAS Director Atty. Lily Freida C. Macabangun-Milla affirmed the team’s “excellent” performance.

Dr. Lagon, former Director of the Office of International Affairs and Linkages (OIAL) and present Director of the Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications Office (PAMMCO) of ISUFST, is among the four Filipino delegates who passed a rigid screening process done by both the Commission on Higher Education International Affairs Service (CHED IAS) and the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre (SEAMEO RIHED). His nomination was endorsed by the school where he is finishing his PhD in Educational Leadership, the University of St. La Salle (USLS)-Bacolod, one of the few select members of the AIMS program in the Philippines. This marks the first time ISUFST has been represented in the CHED-SEAMEO-RIHED-supported AIMS Program.

Upon arriving at Hiroshima University (HU) on July 31, participants were immediately immersed in their journey with an orientation and campus tour. The activities kicked off on August 1 with ice-breaking exercises and brainstorming sessions designed to foster interaction and camaraderie among the group. The day concluded with a warm and welcoming dinner, setting a positive tone for the days ahead.

On August 2, students engaged in “Ideas Mining” workshops aimed at stimulating innovative thinking and collaborative problem-solving. The afternoon featured an educational tour of the Naka Incineration Plant, offering valuable insights into Japan’s environmental sustainability practices.

August 3 was dedicated to lectures and discussions at Hiroshima University’s Graduate School for International Development and Cooperation (IDEC). Students delved into cutting-edge topics such as “Society 5.0 and the Future of University,” “Diversity and Inclusiveness,” and “What Makes a Good Teacher?” These sessions, led by distinguished professors, prompted participants to reflect on the future of education and their roles as emerging leaders.

The fourth day centered on preparation for a mid-program presentation. Students received guidance on creating effective presentation slides, enhancing public speaking skills, and overcoming common presentation challenges. In the afternoon, participants presented their initial ideas and insights, applying the knowledge gained from previous sessions.

A pivotal part of the program occurred on August 5 and 6, with visits to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and attendance at the Peace Memorial Ceremony. These experiences allowed participants to reflect on global peace and the profound impact of history on contemporary society. A particularly emotional moment was hearing the vivid accounts of an A-bomb survivor Michiko Kono and a Jesuit priest who narrated how his spiritual director Fr. Pedro Arrupe, SJj, saved the lives of more then 150 survivors at ground zero, providing a deeply personal perspective on the importance of peace and being a person for others.

The final days of the program were dedicated to preparing and delivering final presentations. On August 8, students showcased their learning and group work at the International Conference Center Hiroshima. The delegates also attended the 18th Annual Review Meeting of AIMS, followed by a wrap-up session and a farewell lunch. August 9 marked the end of the program as delegates bid farewell to their colleagues and departed for their respective destinations.

Initiated in 2010, the AIMS Programme has been a transformative experience for about 7,000 students, enriching their education through living and studying in other countries. It facilitates student mobility and collaboration between Asia and other regions in the world, promoting academic and cross-cultural skills development, regional integration, and development, among governments, universities, and students. Many alumni of the program have described their exchange experiences as life-changing and have made significant contributions to regional understanding, cooperation, and friendship.

Dr. Lagon’s involvement in the AIMS Programme is a testament to ISUFST’s commitment to internationalization, professional development, and collaborative education. By participating in this program, ISUFST further solidifies its role in contributing to the sustainable development of the ASEAN region and Asia as a whole, which is in line with AIMS’ goals of fostering globalized human resources and promoting greater inclusivity through multilateral efforts. (PAMMCO)

August 10 2024

ISUFST inks landmark MOA with Goushigaisha Training Center for Student Internship in Japan

ISUFST Admin Activities, Projects, Research

Morozaki, Aichi Prefecture, Japan —The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) has pursued another “first” in its commitment to internationalization and attainment of global education standards by signing the Memorandum of Agreement with Goushigaisha Mifune, one of the leading SIAP Training Centers in Japan. The MOA, signed today, August 9, at Guminoki, Morozaki, Minamichita, Chita, Aichi Prefecture, was represented by Mr. Ota Masataka for Goushigaisha Mifune and University President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. for ISUFST.

This pioneering partnership provides unmatched opportunities for ISUFST students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) and Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM) programs, among others, on all its campuses and sites. If qualified, the interested students will be placed on at least a six-month internship at the most prestigious establishments in Japan, with full pre-training that includes Japanese culture, the Japanese language, and other related practices.

Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., on his part, said, “The partnership is a testament to our commitment to internationalization and collaboration without compromise. It is another first of its kind under the aegis of our principles of integrity, social justice, discipline, and academic excellence—’ISUFST_ISDA_First.’ We are poised to prepare students and faculty for harnessing requisite skills and knowledge in answering global calls of the 21st century.”

Also, the Aichi side said that they are open to the partnership because there is guaranteed support to be given to the ISUFST students. They look forward to helping the students become accustomed to what they will do in their internships and are excited to host dedicated and talented interns from ISUFST.

This MOA is another hallmark achievement for ISUFST, which has been progressing toward internationalization in the recent past. After its success with the help of successive programs in Thailand and Indonesia post-pandemic, ISUFST hopes to extend to Hong Kong and Japan, so that more students are able to reach their international experiences through the Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP) and other modes such as student exchange, research, conference, training, and collaboration abroad.

This comes on the heels of the 3rd Regional Quality Awards 2024, in which the university received the Award for Excellence in Internationalization Initiatives, among others, last May 2024. These awards bear witness to ISUFST’s commitment to the advancement of education, ensuring that the highest quality is maintained in both local and global environments.

This new collaboration puts ISUFST at the cutting edge of preparing its students with tools and experiences relevant to succeed in the global arena, making ISUFST a true leader in educational innovation and quality. (Text by Dr. Herman Lagon/Photos by Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr./Posted by Patrick Lance Nacion/PAMMCO)

July 30 2024

ISUFST President Siason Highlights Pledge to SDG Healthy City Project

ISUFST Admin Projects, Research

Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., President of the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), has just emphasized the university’s dedication to community engagement and research during his response at the SDG Healthy City project launch this Monday night, July 29, 2024. The event, which took place at the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall Roof Deck, De La Salle University (DLSU), Taft Avenue, Manila, brought together project partners and stakeholders to address cancer and non-communicable disease (NCD) care in Iloilo City.

“On behalf of ISUFST, I am honored to accept the invitation to be a key partner in the SDG Healthy City project,” Dr. Siason stated. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to community engagement and research. We are eager to contribute our expertise in conducting local research, coordinating efforts within Iloilo City, and providing a supportive environment for the Global Fellows.”

Dr. Siason highlighted the importance of the project’s initiatives, noting, “The opportunity to participate in the survey on Universal Health Care (UHC) and National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA) implementation, as well as the conduct of Participatory Action Research, is invaluable. We believe these initiatives will generate critical data and insights to inform evidence-based policies and programs for cancer prevention, control, and care.” Expressing confidence in the project’s impact, he added, “Through our collective efforts, we can significantly improve the lives of cancer patients and contribute to the realization of a healthier Iloilo City. This noble endeavor aligns with our mission to support sustainable improvements in healthcare.”

The SDG Healthy City project, spearheaded by the DLSU Jesse M. Robredo Institute of Governance and funded by the MSD Richard T. Clark Fellowship for Global Health, aims to create a Cancer Service Delivery Network to enhance cancer and NCD care in Iloilo City. The program’s scope includes establishing local patient groups, conducting patient journey research, addressing access barriers, and improving healthcare outcomes. ISUFST, for its part, will provide local research support and coordinate efforts within Iloilo City, assist in hosting the four Global Fellows from the US, UK, and the Philippines, conduct surveys on the implementation of UHC and NICCA, and participate in Participatory Action Research (PAR). Additionally, the university will work closely with Iloilo City Health sector personnel. This collaboration marks another significant “first” in the history of ISUFST, showcasing its expanding role in impactful global health initiatives.

The SDG Healthy City project is a collaborative effort to gather critical data, strengthen stakeholder collaboration, develop targeted interventions, empower communities through education, establish cancer support group partnerships, and recommend policy measures for sustainable improvements. The event, attended by project partners and stakeholders, featured welcome remarks by Br. Bernard S. Oca FSC, President of De La Salle University, and an introduction to the MSD Global Richard T. Clark Fellowship Program by Ms. Jade Fortin of MSD Philippines. Dr. Francisco A. Magno, Professor and SDG Lab Director at DLSU, provided an overview of the SDG 3 Healthy Cities Project. Dr. Ador R. Torneo, Director of the DLSU Jesse M. Robredo Institute of Governance, delivered closing remarks.

The program concluded with responses from project partners, including Dr. Siason and Ms. Karen Villanueva, President of the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations, and a response from MSD Global Fellow Mr. Monir Ahmed. The SDG Healthy City project represents a significant step forward in addressing cancer and NCD care in Iloilo City, with the support and collaboration of esteemed institutions like ISUFST. (Text by Herman Lagon/Data and Photos by Jescel Bito-onon and Edmer Bernardo/PAMMCO) Posted by Patrick Lance Nacion

June 5 2024

ISUFST forges agreement with Aichi International Education Center, Japan

ISUFST Admin Activities, Projects, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) has entered into a new partnership with the Aichi International Education Center in Japan.

This agreement aims to enhance educational and cultural exchanges, fostering collaboration between the two institutions.

The partnership will provide opportunities for student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and shared resources, further enriching the academic experiences at ISUFST and promoting global educational ties.

ISUFST forges agreement with Aichi International Education Center, Japan

June 4 2024

RMUTT confirms renewal of partnership with Thailand’s Rajamangala University

ISUFST Admin Activities, Projects, Research

Bangkok, Thailand, June 3, 2024 – The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) delegation received a significant commitment from Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT) to renew their partnership during a visit coinciding with the celebration of Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana’s birthday.

“We shall definitely renew our collaboration officially,” announced Assist. Prof. Dr. Lalita Siriwattananon, Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology at RMUTT. Her statement came during a meeting this Monday, June 3, with the ISUFST delegation, which includes 12 faculty and administrators from the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (CFAS) and two representatives from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI Office.

Previously, ISUFST and RMUTT had a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that lapsed with limited progress due to various concerns, including the pandemic. Dr. Lalita expressed optimism about the renewed partnership, stating, “I can feel that we shall have a stronger and more palpable partnership, both having new management and with the level of more focused interaction that we are now having.”

The ISUFST delegation visited RMUTT’s agriculture and fisheries facilities and conducted bilateral orientation and exploratory talks. Team leader Dr. Dennis Gomez and CFAS Dean Dr. Rolindo Demo-os introduced ISUFST and its fisheries program to its Thai counterparts. It was then followed by the more engaging colloquia that encompass possibilities for collaboration.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pimpan Pimonrat, Assistant Dean for International Relations, reaffirmed RMUTT’s commitment to a more official collaboration, particularly stressing academic and research partnerships. She emphasized her office’s willingness to assist potential teacher and student exchanges in agriculture technology, especially in animal husbandry and aquaculture fisheries.

Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Boontarika Thongdonphum, Deputy Director of the Office of Academic Resources and Information Technology and Fisheries lecturer, promised to maintain communications among faculty members to develop specific programs that enhance academic services for both institutions.”

The visit concluded with an exchange of tokens and hopes for an MOU renewal ceremony in the near future, symbolizing the shared commitment to this partnership.

To note, ISUFST’s international cross-visit, a historic first-of-its-kind for the university and the country’s fisheries education sector, will continue until June 8, 2024. The team is still to visit the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center SEAFDEC, the two campuses of Kasetsart University, and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT). (Herman Lagon/PAMCO)

May 31 2024

ISUFST leads the charge in Localizing SDGs; Women, Children Empowerment

ISUFST Admin Gender and Development, Projects, Research

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) successfully conducted the Localizing SDG, Women, and Children Empowerment Orientation and Briefing this Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at Park Inn by Radisson, Diversion Road, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. This day-long event attracted numerous representatives from the academe, provincial agencies, and local government units (LGUs) across Iloilo’s five congressional districts.

Academic participants included delegates from West Visayas State University, Iloilo Science and Technology University, Northern Iloilo State University, University of the Philippines Visayas, and University of San Agustin. Representatives from provincial agencies were predominantly from municipal social work, gender and development, and social planning departments. The Iloilo Provincial Government was also represented by its entire Technical Working Group (TWG) executives. Notable attendees included San Enrique Mayor Rosario Mediatrix Fernandez and Carles Mayor Siegfredo Betita.

The project aims to assess the local implementation of national policies on women and children, promote their rights, and position Iloilo as a Gender and Development Local Learning Hub. It focuses on generating baseline knowledge, improving and sustaining women’s and children’s welfare and rights, and integrating the SDGs into the curriculum and community engagement among local academics and leaders.

The morning was dedicated to discussing the initiative’s depth and breadth. In the afternoon, participants engaged in a workshop on identifying and collecting localized data, with inputs presented during the plenary session.

Ms. Alma Ravena, co-chairperson of the Provincial Gender and Development (GAD) Council and representative of Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., highlighted critical issues. “Three out of ten children can’t read,” she noted, underscoring the need for improved literacy and numeracy. She acknowledged the initiative’s support for creating safe spaces, addressing bullying in schools, and tackling teen pregnancy and health issues among young mothers. Ravena conveyed the provincial government’s full backing for ISUFST’s efforts, stating, “We will be backing you up.”

San Enrique Mayor Rosario Mediatrix Fernandez addressed the lack of empowerment among women, especially in less educated and remote families. “This is the time to make a more concerted effort. We must work for gender inclusivity and equality. If we create empowered women, we create empowered children and an empowered society,” she asserted.

Dr. Francisco Magno, the resource speaker and workshop facilitator, elaborated on the program’s outcomes and the importance of being globally aware and competitive while addressing local needs. He emphasized that targeting women and children ensures inclusive and sustainable societal progress.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. expressed gratitude to the participants and experts from De La Salle University and the Office of Senator Risa Hontiveros, a prime supporter of the initiative. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to sustaining the project, highlighting its relevance to local governance and social justice, a guiding principle of ISUFST. “This initiative underscores our dedication to fostering local partnerships and enhancing the welfare of women and children,” he said.

Workshop facilitator Prof. Eddie Nuque emphasized ISUFST’s role as a beacon of knowledge and action, committed to the SDGs and societal transformation. He stressed the value of participant involvement from LGUs and the academe. “Your participation is invaluable, as you know your locale best. The data you provide are crucial to the process,” he remarked.

Earlier this year, ISUFST held its inception meeting and planning session, marking the start of this significant research and extension collaborative effort among local stakeholders in Iloilo. (Text by Herman Lagon/Photos by Ricky Ramos/PAMCO)