May 2, 2025
In a collaborative move towards food security, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment, Partido State University (ParSU), through its College of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (CFMS) Sagรฑay Campus and in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), held the Ceremonial Dispersal of Breeders at the Wet Laboratory, ParSU Sagรฑay, Camarines Sur.ย
The event highlighted the symbolic dispersal of two Improved Brackishwater Enhanced Selected Tilapia (iBEST) strainsโcomprising 1,000 Line 1 and 1,000 Line 2 iBEST breeders, a meaningful gesture signifying the start of a shared commitment to advancing science-based aquaculture practices, promoting long-term fish cultivation, and reducing dependence on commercial hatcheriesโlaying the groundwork for more resilient and self-sustaining local aquaculture.ย
Beyond enhancing local aquaculture capacities, the initiative reflects a deeper alignment, anchoring with ParSU's strategic plan and covering two of its strategic thrusts, which are (1) to intensify knowledge creation, innovation, and entrepreneurship and (2) to promote regional development and support global development goals. This milestone set the tone for the rest of the program, where key stakeholders gathered to affirm their shared vision and chart the path forward.
ParSU President Arnel B. Zarcedo, EDEL, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Knowledge Management and CFMS Dean Dr. Raul G. Bradecina, BFAR V Regional Director Ariel U. Pioquinto, and Chief of the BFAR Fisheries Production and Support Services Division and ParSU CFMS alumni Atty. Nilo B. Consuelo delivered messages of commitment during the program, reinforcing the significance of academic and government collaboration in addressing regional development goals and ensuring long-term food security.ย
Further, a project dialogue and planning session discussed initiatives and ways of strengthening ongoing efforts toward sustainable fisheries development.ย
While seeking to enhance local food supply and encourage resilient practices, this partnership highlights the value of research and stakeholder engagement in creating solutions that will benefit not only the local fishers but also its neighboring communities.ย
As the university continues to expand its reach through strategic partnerships, it remains steadfast in its vision of producing real-world impact through education, innovation, extension services, and collaboration, which exemplifies its mission to bring education and science closer to the grassroots.ย
