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

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)