Faculty of Applied and Aquatic Life Sciences (FAALS) at Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) Bontoc Campus presented their research findings at the 1st Philippines Small-Scale Fisheries National Symposium (PSSFNS), held in Iloilo City from October 16 to 18, 2024. This event serves as a key platform for collaboration, focused on developing sustainable and practical approaches for small-scale fisheries across the nation.

The PSSFNS1 symposium is the first in the Philippines to focus exclusively on small-scale fisheries, uniting fishers, scientists, policymakers, advocates, and other stakeholders from across the country.

Themed, “Small-Scale Fisheries in the Philippines are too Big to Ignore,” the symposium spotlighted key issues in small-scale fisheries, covering management, economics, socio-cultural impacts, climate resilience, and the roles of gender, technology, and innovation.

Emphasizing the rich marine biodiversity of Southern Leyte, Associate Professor Jimmy Salamida, Dean of FAALS, showcased his research poster titled, “Fishing Gears and Their Common Catch in Two Coastal Areas of Liloan, Southern Leyte, Eastern Philippines.” The study documented 14 types of fishing gear and identified the fish caught as primarily pelagic and reef-associated species.
Mr. Salamida highlighted that the data gathered can contribute to the formulation of an effective fisheries management plan for the entire Panaon Island, a proposed seascape.

“Our findings provide baseline data on multi-gear fisheries in the area, which is a prerequisite in making fisheries policies and management decisions,” he added.
He also recommended that implementing Communication, Education, and Public Awareness (CEPA) initiatives would greatly enhance understanding of fisheries resources on Panaon Island.

Meanwhile, Instructor Liela Bejel shared her research findings on, “Shifts in Social Dynamics, Occupational Activities, and Socioeconomic Conditions of Tilapia Farmers in Brgy. Magatas, Sogod, Southern Leyte during the COVID-19 Pandemic,” in a Student Oral Speed presentation competition.

She emphasized that there was a significant increase in aquaculture farming in the area, particularly among women, saw a rise in tilapia farming during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Providing additional technical training and support for post-harvest processing and the value-added chain of potential tilapia products could generate extra revenue, especially for women in the industry” she added.

Ms. Bejel also pointed out that there is a lower engagement of younger people in aquaculture farming, suggesting that promoting agro-entrepreneurship could help address this issue.

Organized by the TBTI Philippines Hub, the event is led by the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) with co-organizers Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU), Central Philippines State University (CPSU), Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), State University of Northern Negros (SUNN), and University of Antique (UA).

Featuring a special session by Oceana Philippines International on reducing postharvest fish losses and improving food security and livelihoods in coastal communities. Additionally, USAID Fish Right presented responsible sourcing practices for small-scale fisheries to stakeholders and panel members.

The symposium concluded with a commitment to creating sustainable and viable solutions for small-scale fisheries across the country.

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) Bontoc Campus through its sustained partnership with Plongeurs du Monde (PDM), a non-governmental organization of International Solidarity, along with the Sogod Bay SCUBA Resort (SBSR) and the Provincial Investment & Promotions Office- Southern Leyte, successfully conducted the Batch IV Open Water to Advanced Open Water Diver Course from September 30 to October 11, 2024. Held at the Sogod Bay SCUBA Resort in Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte, the program trained 14 participants, equipping them with advanced diving skills and experience in one of the region's premier diving locations.

The 14 PDM trainees included a diverse group of students and alumni from SLSU Bontoc. Representing the Bachelor of Science in Fisheries (BSFi) program was Marvelita Rin, while eight Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology (BSMB) students participated: Aerol Kate Bantaculo, John Kevin Cortez, Rolando Joven Jr., Melissa Sabalo, Aiza Mae Udarbe, Gerald Manatad, Katherine Digal, and Faith Micah Balbon. Additionally, four BSMB alumni—Kimberly Boyles, Ruffa Mae Calunod, Sheena Marie Cebuala, Floriemar Omagbon, and Emelie Pejoto—completed the training, furthering their skills in marine science and diving.

Under the expert guidance of seasoned instructors—PADI Instructor and Mission Head Leader Laurent Martin, PADI Instructor and Training Leader Yves Gruel, and PADI Instructor and Trainer Pascal Le Rouge—along with PADI Divemasters and Trainers Jean Gaurin, Victor Aussal, and SLSU-Bontoc resident Dive Master Ryan Tomol, the participants embarked on a successful underwater adventure. Dive photographer Aline Chamblant beautifully capturing key moments from the underwater training sessions.

On October 11, 2024, the Open Water to Advanced Open Water Diver Course concluded with a day dedicated to environmental and celebratory activities. Participants, including members from Plongeurs du Monde (PDM), Assistance and Cooperation for Community Resilience and Development, Inc. (ACCORD Inc.), and PADI trainees, joined together for a coastal clean-up and mangrove seedling bagging to support local marine conservation efforts.

The culmination of the course was marked by a proclamation ceremony attended by SLSU Key Officials, with University President Jude A. Duarte leading the recognition of Batch IV completers. The ceremony celebrated the trainees’ achievements and their dedication to marine conservation and diving excellence.

This accomplishment would not have been possible without the support of local partner agencies that expressed their commitment to this ongoing collaboration, including the Southern Leyte Tourism, Investment, and Promotions Center (SLTIPC) and Sogod Bay SCUBA Resort.

In celebration of the Philippine Councilor’s League (PCL) Month, the Sangguniang Bayan of Malitbog launched a significant environmental project—a collaborative Mangrove Growing Activity in partnership with the Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) Bontoc Campus which was held on September 16, 2024, at Barangay Cantamuac, Malitbog, Southern Leyte.

The activity was spearheaded by Ms. Janine Dimzon, Head of the In-house Research, Innovations, and Extension Services (RIES), together with Mr. Ryan P. Tomol (Resident Divemaster), Annielou Bonghanoy (Science Research Assistant), Ms. Leila Bejel (Faculty, Marine Biology), alongside marine biology student volunteers.

“At SLSU Bontoc, we are honoured to have been approached by the LGU Malitbog for this vital initiative aimed at safeguarding the future of our coastlines. As part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, SLSU Bontoc Campus joins the advocacy on planting the right mangrove species at the right site. For us to promote this, we give free lectures and orientations to our partners, plus we give away free mangrove seedlings coming from our very own mangrove nursery,” Campus Director, Gladys L. Pascual said.

The activity, which is part of the RIES Extension Program, kicked off with an informative session, educating participants on the crucial role of mangroves in the ecosystem. Ms. Dimzon and her team discussed the most common mangrove species commonly found in the Philippines, shedding light on how these coastal plants act as natural barriers against erosion, storm surges, and flooding. The session also covered the guidelines on the proper care and management of mangroves to ensure their growth and sustainability.

Ms. Dimzon expressed her excitement about the collaboration, saying, “At SLSU Bontoc, through the Extension Services Office, we're all about empowering communities by supporting programs with practical, science-based methods. I’m excited to share our expertise and lend our hands to make this initiative a success.”

The Mangrove Planting Activity is just one of the many ways that SLSU Bontoc’s RIES Office is making a positive impact on local communities. The university’s focus on environmental stewardship and sustainable development aligns with the broader goals of preserving the region’s unique marine ecosystems.

In a collaborative effort to uplift literacy in local communities, Southern Leyte State University – Bontoc Campus partnered with the Southern Leyte Organization for People's Welfare Alliance Inc. (SOPWA), a prominent NGO spearheading social development programs in the province. Together, they organized a book donation drive through the SLSU Bontoc Library, under the direction of Campus Librarian Ms. Lowella Prado.

Running from August 19 to September 30, 2024, the initiative brought together faculty, students, and local donors with a shared goal: to enrich, inspire, educate, and empower communities by providing valuable educational resources. These donations will directly support SOPWA’s mission to promote literacy and education in underserved areas across Southern Leyte.

On October 8, 2024, a formal turnover ceremony was held, where Mr. Rico Cajife, representing SOPWA, graciously received the contributions on behalf of the organization. SOPWA has long been dedicated to improving lives through education, and this partnership marks a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts.

Campus Director, Dr. Gladys L. Pascual, who personally donated a collection of books, expressed her pride in the initiative. “Supporting programs like this not only symbolizes SLSU Bontoc’s commitment to community service but also reinforces our dedication to fostering literacy and promoting quality education,” she said.

The book donation drive stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared responsibility of institutions and organizations in advancing educational opportunities for all.

“We are incredibly grateful for the donations we have received. A total of 83 book titles were contributed to this drive. This will surely help the SOPWA in their continuous effort to offer vital educational resources for the development and well-being of the Southern Leyte community,” Campus Librarian, Ms. Prado said.

This initiative represents an important step toward building a brighter future for Southern Leyte through access to knowledge and learning resources.