SDG 16

February 20 2026

World Day of Social Justice

ISUFST Admin Activities SDG 14, SDG 16, SDG 17

February 20, 2026

ISUFST proudly stands with the global observance of the World Day of Social Justice, affirming its support for the call of the Too-Big-To-Ignore (TBTI) Philippines National Consortium for Small-Scale Fisheries Research and Development.

Together with TBTI Philippines, we uphold the full implementation of RA 8550, as amended by RA 10654, protecting the 15-kilometer municipal waters for our small-scale fisherfolk. Their rights, livelihoods, and dignity matter.

Our municipal fisherfolk are too big to ignore. (ISUFST | PAMMCO)

February 14 2026

ISUFST Faculty and Staff join One Billion Rising Campaign

ISUFST Admin Gender and Development SDG 16, SDG 17, SDG 3, SDG 4, SDG 5

About fifty faculty and staff of the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) joined hundreds of participants at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand on February 13, 2026 for the annual One Billion Rising (OBR) campaign, a global movement calling for an end to violence against women and girls.

Wearing pink shirts, the ISUFST delegation from the different campuses took part in the morning program organized by the Ugsad Regional Gender Resource Network–Western Visayas, which gathered representatives from government agencies, academic institutions, civil society groups, and local communities. (Photos by Mila Bedia, Jennifer Mamerto, and Herman Lagon | PAMMCO)

January 14 2026

ISUFST holds Welcome Program for SEA-Teacher Batch II Exchange Students

ISUFST Admin International Affairs SDG 10, SDG 16, SDG 17, SDG 4

DAY 1 | January 12, 2026

A Global Monday Morning at ISUFST–Dingle Campus

The ISUFST–Dingle Campus started the week with a global spirit as we officially welcomed our SEA-Teacher Project Batch 11 exchange students, Ms. Nur Annisa Putri and Ms. Adinda Sari from Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU), Indonesia, during the Flag Raising Ceremony.

🌟 Highlights of the Morning:

Faculty-Led Welcome: The ceremony was proudly hosted by the ISUFST Teaching Faculty, reflecting our strong support for international academic exchange.
Unity in Learning: Our Indonesian guests were formally introduced to the campus community, marking the beginning of their journey in teaching assistance, classroom engagement, and cultural immersion.
Global Collaboration: Under the guidance of Dr. Rene T. Estomo, SEA-Teacher Coordinator, and the College of Education, the campus is set for a meaningful month of shared growth and excellence.

DAY 2 | January 13, 2026

Strengthening Cultural Exchange Through Learning and Friendship

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology–Dingle Campus, through the College of Education, conducted a Welcoming Program for the SEA-Teacher exchange students at the Audio Visual Room – Knowledge Management Hub.

The program officially opened with Dr. Giefred Ian P. Paniza, Dean of the College of Education, who emphasized the importance of learning beyond the classroom and highlighted the value of collaboration, shared experiences, and friendship among educators.

The event continued with the SEA-Teachers’ Talk, led by the ISUFST SEA-Teacher Buddies Rojeal Castro, Kathleen Hope Marte, and Warren Villazana. During the session:

Students shared their impressions of the exchange students.

Ms. Annisa and Ms. Sari introduced Indonesia, particularly Medan City, describing it as a multicultural place.
They also shared their experiences in the Philippines, including local food they tried and Hiligaynon words they have learned.
The exchange students expressed that the program is a valuable opportunity to enhance their teaching skills, classroom management, and cultural understanding.

Dr. Nancy D. Daguro, Coordinator for Cultural Affairs, delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing that the SEA-Teacher Program serves as a bridge that connects future educators and fosters cross-cultural learning.

The program concluded with the closing remarks of Dr. Rene T. Estomo, ISUFST SEA-Teacher Coordinator, expressing appreciation for the collaboration and enthusiasm shown by everyone involved.

Captioned: Ferleen Joy G. Darle

Photos : Mae Joy M. Ladoing

DAY 3 | January 14, 2026

The 11th batch of SEA-Teacher Exchange participants from Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU), Indonesia, paid a courtesy visit to ISUFST University President Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., CESO VI.

The delegation was composed of Ms. Nur Annisa Putri and Ms. Adinda Sari, students of the Bachelor of Elementary School Teacher Education program at UMSU.

The visit highlighted the continued strengthening of educational ties between ISUFST and UMSU and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to international collaboration, cultural exchange, and cross-cultural learning opportunities. This meaningful engagement reflects ISUFST’s dedication to developing globally competent future educators.

December 1 2025

ISUFST PAMMCO Ambassadors Shine in the 16th Gusting Awards

ISUFST Admin Activities, Recognitions SDG 16, SDG 17, SDG 4

Five young ambassadors of the loilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications Office (PAMMCO) have ignited the stage as they joined the 16th Gusting journalism training and workshop held at University of San Agustin Auditorium, November 29-30, 2025.

Themed “Beyond the Byline: Journalism as a Watchdog against Disinformation for Campus and Beyond,” the event was participated in by 750 students from 51 schools in Panay, Negros and Cebu.

Among the winning ISUFSTian PAMMCO Ambassadors are:

– Lagradante, Crystel – 1st Place, News Writing (Filipino)

– Adonis Pango – 2nd Place Short Reels

– Jovie Kate Lorca – 3rd Place Feature Writing (English)

Alongsde them were ambassadors Tiffany Anne Sullesa, and Dein Andrey Daguro, representing Tiwi, Dingle, and Dumangas campuses.

The five are part of a group of studentscalled PAMMCO ambassadors, who applied and committed to assist ISUFST in its effort to “show and tell (ISUFST) stories that matter” to the community through the different mediums of communication and public affairs initiatives.

It is worth noting that the two-day affair covered traditional and contemporary journalistic platforms, including news, feature, editorial, column, and sports writing, copyreading and headlining, video editing, broadcasting, vlogging, editorial cartooning, page layouting and design, social media content creation, reels editing, and media and digital ethics, among others.

To elevate the level of training, it had national media experts and practitioners from Rappler; ABS-CBN, SunStar,, and the academe as its resource speakers, facilitators, judges, and discussants. This included ISUFST’s PAMMCO Director Herman Lagon, a regular columnist of 15 newspapers nationwide, who covered feature, editorial, and column writing. (

Crystel P. Lagradante |

Adonis Pango | PAMMCO)

August 29 2025

ISUFST’s Director Biñas Appointed as New RIMC Chair to Lead DSWD VI Monitoring Body

ISUFST Admin Extension, Recognitions SDG 1, SDG 10, SDG 16, SDG 17, SDG 3, SDG 4

Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Extension Director Joana Paula B. Biñas has been elected as the new chairperson of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region VI’s Regional Independent Monitoring Committee (RIMC) during its 2nd Quarter Meeting held this week.

Biñas, who now represents the academe and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), succeeds Norma Chan-Pongan of CORE Philippines Inc. in the role. With members from NGOs and the academe, the RIMC provides independent monitoring of programs such as the 4Ps to improve delivery of services across Western Visayas.

Biñas stressed the importance of SUCs in this effort. “I am honored to be elected chairperson. SUCs have the duty to share research, expertise, and engagement to help programs like the 4Ps,” she said.

She noted that collaboration within the group will ensure the program adapts to family needs and lasts for the long term. “By combining the strengths of government agencies, SUCs, and communities, the 4Ps can further contribute to improving education, health, and livelihood, fostering a stronger and more inclusive nation,” Biñas emphasized.

Alongside Biñas, Joy De Pallo of Goducate–APIIS was elected as vice chairperson, while Daisy B. Ibieza of Guimaras State University will serve as secretary.

The committee also discussed the Regional Convergence Plan, updates on projects of Camp Goducate–Asia Pacific Institute of International Studies (APIIS), and preparations for the Regional Convergence Committee and RIMC Field Visit scheduled for October 2025.

ISUFST views Biñas’s election as RIMC chair as an extension of its commitment to community service, social responsibility, and inclusive nation-building. The role echoes the university’s VGMO and its alignment with SDG goals in education, health, and poverty reduction.

Over the next three years, she will lead efforts to make social welfare programs more transparent and effective for families. This recognition underscores ISUFST’s growing impact in both fisheries science and community empowerment. (Photos from DSWD VI/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

August 19 2025

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

ISUFST Admin Gender and Development, Recognitions SDG 10, SDG 13, SDG 16, SDG 17, SDG 5

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 5 2025

ISUFST Hosts Gender and Anti-Sexual Harassment Awareness Conversations

ISUFST Admin Gender and Development SDG 16, SDG 4, SDG 5, SDG 8

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) conducted a gender and anti-sexual harassment awareness seminar this Friday, August 1, 2025, at Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City. The activity aimed to empower faculty and staff with essential knowledge on gender sensitivity and Republic Act 7877, also known as the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995.

Organized by the university’s Gender and Development (GAD) Office, the event—titled “Know Your Rights: Empowering Employees through GAD and Anti-Sexual Harassment Awareness” was part of ISUFST’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusive, respectful, and safe working environments in line with its core values and its commitment to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5: Gender Equality.

“We are building a university where dignity, equity, and safety are non-negotiables,” said Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., ISUFST President, said about the systemwide initiative. “Gender and development are not just compliance matters—they are integral to how we form professionals and lead communities.”

The event opened with remarks from Dr. Johnny Dolor, Vice President for Administration and Finance, and a rationale presentation by Dr. Lenirose Mondero, ISUFST GAD Director. Participants were welcomed into a day of critical discourse and reflection on rights, boundaries, and responsibilities within academic and workplace contexts.

The first session focused on gender sensitivity, led by Ms. Alma Ravena, Co-Chair of the Provincial Gender and Development Council and member of the National Gender Resource Pool of the Philippine Commission on Women. Drawing on a decade of grassroots advocacy, Ravena emphasized the power of education in shifting mindsets and breaking gender stereotypes.

“When we understand gender beyond biology, we begin to unlearn bias, challenge inequality, and create safer spaces for everyone,” Ravena shared, adding that policies only matter if people truly believe in the dignity they protect.

In the second session, Atty. Doni June Almio, Managing Partner of Oso Pueblo Hiponia Almio & Associates and law faculty member at the University of San Agustin, gave a detailed lecture on the legal framework of RA 7877 and related jurisprudence. Almio clarified the obligations of institutions to prevent and address sexual harassment and the mechanisms for redress available to victims.

“Sexual harassment thrives in silence and inaction,” Almio warned. “RA 7877 mandates not only punishment for offenders but also accountability for institutions that fail to protect.”

The forum also tackled how sexual harassment is committed in both workplace and educational settings and discussed the responsibilities of employers to establish a Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI). The need for clear internal policies, proper decorum, and awareness of both administrative and legal remedies were also outlined.

Closing the program, Dr. Joan Belga, Vice President for Academic Affairs, reiterated ISUFST’s institutional stance. “We are not just here to comply with mandates. We are here to shape a university culture where no one feels unsafe, unheard, or unseen.”

The activity is part of a series of gender mainstreaming initiatives under ISUFST’s GAD Program, reflecting the university’s broader institutional mission of nurturing competent and values-oriented professionals across its five campuses.

Founded in 1957, ISUFST is the country’s premier fisheries university, offering 27 undergraduate and 16 graduate programs. It has consistently earned accolades, including the 2025 CHED Awards for Excellence in Indigenous Peoples Education, Internationalization Initiatives, Peace Education, and Community Extension and Linkages. The university is also globally recognized through its inclusion in the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, particularly in SDG 14: Life Below Water. (Photos by Ricky Ramos and Herman Lagon/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

August 4 2025

Davao del Sur State College Conducts Benchmarking Visit to ISUFST for University Conversion Goals

ISUFST Admin International Affairs, Recognitions SDG 16, SDG 17, SDG 4, SDG 9

BAROTAC NUEVO, ILOILO (August 4, 2025)—The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) welcomed nine key officials from Davao del Sur State College (DSSC) for a one-day benchmarking visit at its Main Campus–Tiwi Site, a significant step in DSSC’s preparations for its planned university conversion in 2028.

Spearheading the DSSC delegation was Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Siverlyn Camposano, accompanied by Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Luciano Nasibog, Jr. The team was warmly received by ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Jonny Dolor, and university officials from various academic and administrative sectors.

The exchange was more than a formal visit—it was a full-circle immersion. After hours in the conference room for the orientation, presentations, and Q&A session, the DSSC delegation visited ISUFST’s key spaces—from offices to labs, classrooms to museum—and had solid sit-downs with unit heads. They exchanged ideas, shared challenges, and dove into topics like governance and documentation, finding the conversation both honest and inspiring.

DSSC VPAA Dr. Camposano shared that learning about ISUFST’s journey and the behind-the-scenes efforts that led to its university conversion gave their team both clarity and inspiration. She noted that they witnessed more than just documents and policies—they saw the people and systems that truly brought the vision to life.

ISUFST’s journey from being Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCOF) to achieving full university status on January 10, 2023, served as the roadmap DSSC came to learn from. Now with campuses and sites in Barotac Nuevo, Dingle, Dumangas, and San Enrique, ISUFST stands as the country’s only fisheries university.

VPAA Dr. Belga described the visit as a moment of shared growth. “It’s rare to have a conversation that’s both technical and heartwarming,” she said. “We’re happy to walk with DSSC in this journey—not as experts, but as fellow educators strengthening our institutions together.”

ISUFST President Dr. Siason, Jr., echoed this, saying that meaningful exchanges like these help build a stronger culture of collaboration and nation-building in higher education. He quickly shared that ISUFST’s own transition was the result of years of planning, community engagement, and meeting CHED’s standards. “It wasn’t easy,” he said, “but it was worth it.”

DSSC’s benchmarking activity is rooted in the requirements of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for university conversion. Institutions must show institutional maturity, competent leadership, strong faculty profiles, adequate libraries and infrastructure, research productivity, impact of international linkages, and meaningful community engagement. CHED also requires strict compliance with its orders and a demonstrated commitment to continuous quality improvement.

This visit is part of DSSC’s bigger plan to prepare for university hood. After ISUFST, they are also set to visit West Visayas State University for another round of learning. As both schools shared during the wrap-up, it was more than just a compliance check—it was about culture, leadership, networking, and the everyday work of building futures through education. (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

July 26 2025

One Legacy, One Home: The 2025 Grand Alumni Homecoming

ISUFST Admin Extension, International Affairs SDG 11, SDG 16, SDG 4

From DHS, DAIS, DATEC, ISCOF to ISUFST — generations of proud alumni gathered on July 26, 2025, to celebrate a legacy built through time. The event was graced by University President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., with an inspiring keynote message from Mr. Wilson Batislaon.

The day began with a colorful parade of batches, each joyfully led by their muses and escorts — a wonderful display of the unity and pride shared by all who have been part of these halls.

More than just a reunion, the Grand Alumni Homecoming was a heartfelt reminder that no matter where life leads us, this will always be one legacy, one home.
– Edeline Joy Brito / PAMMCO
📸 Sir Ricky Ramos

#ISUFST #ISUFSTisDaFirst #ISUFSTCommunity

July 22 2025

ISUFST Charts Global Path with Heart for Local Communities

ISUFST Admin Activities, Extension SDG 10, SDG 16, SDG 17, SDG 4, SDG 8

With bold aspirations and grounded hearts, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) opened a two-day Strategic Planning Workshop on Internationalization on July 21, 2025, at the ICT TechnoHub in ISUFST Main Campus-Poblacion Site, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo. The initiative aims to craft a five-year roadmap to guide the university’s global engagements—while staying true to its mission to serve the people of Iloilo, especially those at the margins.

Bringing together deans, program heads, faculty, internationalization staff, directors, and university administrators, the workshop is led by Dr. Gaudencio C. Petalcorin Jr., Professor VI and Global Reputation Focal Person of Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT). A seasoned academic leader and CHED Internationalization Committee member, Petalcorin brings years of experience in integrating global standards into local institutions.

“We already have what it takes to go global,” Petalcorin said. “But for the plan to work—not just on paper but in people’s lives—our hearts must be in it. Good ideas need effective packaging to make an impact.”

The first day featured aspiration-setting and hands-on workshops per academic program. Each team identified its strategic goals, action points, and success indicators for the next five years. The following morning, Petalcorin and special guest Prof. Eddie Nuque from De La Salle University presented the outputs.

Nuque emphasized the importance of staying mission-focused amid the university’s expanding international reach. “Yes, we must engage the world. But we should never forget that our core mission is to serve the people of Iloilo—especially the marginalized communities who rely on education for opportunity,” he said. “Internationalization should be a tool to deepen—not distract from—our local impact.”

Dr. Jeanette Bayona, Director of International Affairs and Linkages, expressed appreciation for the collaborative work of the participants. “We will integrate all your outputs and present it to you for feedbacking. Looking forward to an impactful Strategic Internationalization Plan,” she said.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr. welcomed the dialogue with optimism. “We are honored by Dr. Petalcorin’s presence and insights. We hope that the outputs of this planning session will truly reflect our commitment to the VMG and help us chart a direction anchored in both global quality and local relevance.”

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga echoed this call, urging the participants to treat the moment as more than a compliance exercise. “Let’s take advantage of this opportunity to dream beyond boundaries but serve within our means,” she said.

Petalcorin, reflecting on the exchange of ideas, expressed his appreciation: “What I saw here wasn’t just planning—it was listening. I appreciate the presence, the questions, the openness. This isn’t about creating a document to please others; it’s about shaping a story that makes sense to you and the people you serve.”

Among the strategic directions discussed were the offering of global language courses with embedded cultural learning, and building partnerships for virtual classes, research and social involvement collaboration, student internship, and international student-faculty exchanges.

Once finalized, the internationalization roadmap will be presented to the Academic and Administrative Councils and eventually endorsed to the Board of Regents for approval in the third quarter of the academic year.

As the country’s only state university dedicated to fisheries science and technology, ISUFST continues to rise as a purpose-driven institution. Recent recognitions—including CHED’s Outstanding Board Performance Award and honors in internationalization and Indigenous Peoples Education—show the university’s unique ability to blend tradition and transformation.

“This is not just about global visibility,” Petalcorin reminded the crowd. “It’s about visibility with purpose—being seen because we’re doing something that matters.” (Ricky Ramos/Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)