The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) received the Fisheries Scholarship Program (FSP) Advocate Award from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) today, September 19, 2025, at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City, in recognition of its commitment to fisheries education and consistent support for BFAR’s scholarship initiatives.
The award, given under the Best State Universities and Colleges Category, highlights ISUFST’s “unwavering support, active collaboration, and remarkable commitment” to the FSP, which aims to nurture competent fisheries professionals across the country. It was presented in time for the 52nd Fish Conservation Week, a national event which ISUFST CFAS primarily celebrates, that underscores the importance of protecting the country’s aquatic resources
The certificate of recognition was signed by BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig, a Master of Fisheries Technology alumnus of ISUFST. Representing ISUFST at the awarding were Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga and College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Dean Rolindo Demo-os, Jr.
Belga said the recognition affirms ISUFST’s mandate as the country’s premier fisheries university. “This award mirrors our shared dedication to producing graduates who are not only skilled but also socially responsible stewards of our marine and aquatic resources,” Belga stated.
Demo-os, for his part, underscored the collaborative efforts of faculty, students, and partner agencies in making ISUFST a consistent ally of BFAR’s scholarship program. “Our success is rooted in the passion of our faculty, the determination of our scholars, and the trust of BFAR in our institution. This recognition inspires us to strengthen our programs even further,” Demo-os remarked.
The award rites formed part of the 52nd Fish Conservation Week, themed Gawad Parangal sa mga Kabalikat ng Pangisdaan at Yamang-Tubig. The program included keynote addresses by Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther Bayate and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr., who both lauded SUCs for their role in advancing fisheries education and conservation.
ISUFST officials were joined by BFAR Regional Director Remia Aparri and several alumni now serving as division heads at BFAR’s central office. Students and retired faculty of ISUFST also attended the event, underscoring the university’s strong alumni and community ties.
The recognition affirms ISUFST’s alignment with its vision of academic excellence and its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
Since 1957, ISUFST has been the Philippines’ only fisheries university. Recognized for nine years as a Center of Development in Fisheries and ISO 9001:2015-certified, it now serves 8,500 students in five campuses and continues to train skilled graduates in fisheries, marine sciences, agriculture, management, technology, and education. (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)
