SLSU Bontoc Hosts Pisay Scholars for Agri-Fishery Immersion
Dr. Gladys Pascual, Campus Director of Southern Leyte State University-Bontoc Campus, served as one of the mentor-speakers during the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) Training Program held at Visayas State University (VSU) on June 19, 2025.
The activity was part of DOST-PCAARRD’s continuing initiative to build research and development capacities in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources sectors.
It brought together 25 scholars from the Philippine Science High School–Eastern Visayas Campus (PSHS-EVC) under the DOST-PCAARRD Youth Science Program (DPYSP). The program was implemented by the Center for Socio-Cultural Research and Heritage Studies (CSCRHS) of Visayas State University, headed by Project Leader and OIC Director Dr. Max Teody T. Quimilat.
CONCEPT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND LEGAL MANDATES
As mentor-speaker, Dr. Gladys Pascual discussed the concept of sustainability and the legal mandates governing the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, emphasizing their critical role in ensuring the long-term viability of marine resources.
Dr. Pascual emphasized the pressing challenges faced by the country’s marine capture fisheries, citing overfishing, bycatch discard, and the continued presence of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing as major concerns.
“These issues not only threaten the sustainability of marine resources but also undermine the livelihoods of coastal communities that rely heavily on fishing for their income and food security,” she added.
Dr. Pascual also outlined common regulatory techniques used to promote the conservation and protection of marine resources. These include the enforcement of closed seasons, the designation of closed areas, and the prohibition of destructive fishing methods.
“These measures are crucial for allowing fish populations to recover, protecting critical habitats, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the country’s marine ecosystems,” Pascual said.
PISAY AT SLSU BONTOC
As part of its commitment to promoting inclusive and experiential education, the SLSU Bontoc hosted a day-long activity that began with an orientation on its agri-fishery facilities. The scholars toured key areas including the Tilapia Hatchery and Grow-out site, the Brackishwater Station for bangus fingerling production, the newly established Fish Processing Building, and the Bioresource Production Technology Center (BiProTeC).
These facility visits served as an opportunity for the scholars to better understand the processes behind sustainable fish farming and resource management.
The visit culminated in a milkfish deboning demonstration, which included a short lecture on food safety and handling practices, followed by a hands-on deboning activity. One student described the experience as unforgettable, saying, “I won’t forget this for the rest of my life.”
This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 15: Life on Land, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
