Fisheries Honor Society

Balancing Sustainability and Competition: Coastal Governance and Legal Shifts in Municipal Fisheries

The College of Fisheries Symposium 2026 served as a meaningful platform for learning, collaboration, and awareness, bringing together students and professionals to discuss the importance of sustainable fisheries, effective coastal governance, and the evolving legal landscape affecting municipal fisheries.

The insightful discussion delivered by Atty. Christopher M. Ignacio emphasized that achieving balance between economic progress, fair competition, and environmental protection requires responsible leadership, cooperation, and informed decision-making.

As aspiring fisheries professionals, this symposium inspires us to strengthen our commitment to sustainable practices and responsible stewardship of marine resources for the welfare of present and future coastal communities.

May this experience continue to encourage us to become advocates of sustainability and agents of positive change in preserving our oceans and supporting the livelihoods that depend on them.

A Triumph of Knowledge and Perseverance 🎓

With great pride and joy, we announce the successful thesis defense of Mr. Al-Yahsin L. Hamsi, a student of Master in Fisheries Management (Aquaculture Technology)!

On May 6, 2026, he successfully defended his thesis entitled:
“Effects of Different Diets on Growth and Gonadal Maturation of Adult Female Mantis Shrimp (𝘓𝘺𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘴𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘢 𝘮𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘢) Cultured in Bottles in Pangutaran, Sulu, Philippines”, marking a significant milestone in his academic journey.

This achievement is not his alone. It stands as a testament to the guidance, expertise, and unwavering support of the people behind this success.

Research Committee:
Chairman: Dr. Oliver D. Tito
Adviser: Dr. Maila V. Pan
Members: Prof. Arthur L. Panganiban, Prof. Nerisa G. Bongo, Prof. Angelo Macario

Support Team:
Critic: Dr. Elvira E. Salian
Statistician: Prof. Macrino T. Tubat
Secretary: Anthon Glen Antonio

To Mr. Hamsi: Your dedication and hard work have truly paid off. May this accomplishment open doors to greater opportunities and contributions in the field of Fisheries.

Congratulations on this well-deserved success!

Got research? 👀

This is your moment to shine! ✨ Step into EXPEDITION: Navigating the Frontiers of Undergraduate Discovery and showcase your ideas, insights, and innovations to a wider academic audience.

Whether you’re exploring aquatic ecosystems, diving into new technologies, or uncovering trends in your field. Your research deserves to be seen and heard. 🌊

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain experience, build confidence, and represent your discipline at the 9th Undergraduate Research Forum!

Start polishing your abstracts and take that step forward

🗓 Deadline: May 8, 2026

𝗖𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔𝗕𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧 | The 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 is officially inviting you to showcase your research at the 𝟵𝘁𝗵 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺. With the theme “ 𝙀𝙓𝙋𝙀𝘿𝙄𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉: 𝙉𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙜𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙁𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙐𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙪𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮”, this is your chance to share your scientific findings in your field of discipline. Whether you are exploring new technologies, studying aquatic ecosystems, exploring social trends, or uncovering scientific breakthrough, we want to see your discoveries highlighted in this prestigious academic gathering.

Please take note of the important details for your submission. The deadline for abstracts is 𝗠𝗔𝗬 𝟴, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, so be sure to finalize your documents soon. Your abstract must follow specific formatting: it should be 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗴𝗲 (𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗶𝘇𝗲), written in 𝟭𝟮 𝗽𝘁 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻, and the 𝘁𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝟮𝟱𝟬 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀 and the 𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗢𝗟𝗗 𝗖𝗔𝗣𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗟 𝗟𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲𝘀. Remember to 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 and mark your 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿’𝘀 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗸 (*) . You can submit a 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝘀. 𝗔𝗹𝗱𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲 𝗗. 𝗡𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗼 at the OVPRIE or email a 𝗣𝗗𝗙 𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you at the 𝗔𝗩𝗥, 𝗭𝗦𝗖𝗠𝗦𝗧 on 𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝟭𝟰, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, for a day of innovation and discovery!

🏆 CONGRATULATIONS! 🏆

The entire FHS community takes great pride in celebrating with Lovey Mae Taño Biadnes and Joy Mae Marie Martinez, who earned the 2nd Place Award in the 10th National Fisheries Biotechnology Quiz Bee! 🥈👏 Competing against top teams from 10 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across the country, their outstanding performance reflects their hard work, mastery, and deep understanding of the field.

We also extend our sincere appreciation and recognition to their dedicated mentors: Ms. Yra Jem G. Manguramas, BSFi Program Adviser, and Ms. Judia N. Gonzaga, BSFi Faculty, College of Fisheries and Allied Sciences, ZSCMST. Your consistent guidance, passion for teaching, and commitment to excellence have been the foundation of their success.

10th NFBS || DAY 1

The morning session began with a clear and comprehensive overview of the Biotechnology Program in the Philippines, shared by Marcellas Antonia Y. Barrogo. This presentation set a strong foundation, helping all participants understand the scope, direction, and value of biotechnology in national development.

The afternoon program presented three pivotal subject areas through our plenary sessions:

🔹 Harnessing the Biotechnological Potential of Philippine Seaweeds
by Wilfred John E. Santiañez, Ph.D.
Key Message: Biotech unlocks seaweeds’ full economic and environmental value, boosting production while protecting coastal ecosystems for long-term sustainability.

🔹 Innovations for Sustainable Fish Breeding in the Philippines
by Peter A. Palma, Ph.D.
Key Message: Improved breeding varieties increase productivity, enhance disease resistance, and meet food demands while making aquaculture more efficient and eco-friendly.

🔹 Benchmarking Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) and Balancing Environmental Factors for Optimal Fish Production
by Joseph Leopoldo Q. Laranja, Ph.D.
Key Message: Optimized resource use and balanced conditions reduce costs and waste, creating farming systems that are both profitable and environmentally responsible.

The day’s discussions came to life during our interactive open forum, expertly facilitated by Mary-Nia M. Santos, Ph.D. | Senior Science Research Specialist / Scientist I, NFRDI. Here, participants asked questions, shared ideas, and connected closely—turning presentations into meaningful dialogue that deepened everyone’s understanding.

10th NFBS || DAY 2

We started our second day by reviewing key highlights from Day 1, building on shared insights to sustain our momentum. We then delved into three forward-thinking topics:

🔹 Feed Biotechnology for Sustainable Aquaculture
by Mary Jane A. Amar, Ph.D.
Key Message: Advanced feed technology produces safer, more nutritious options that improve yields and minimize environmental impact.

🔹 Molecular Surveillance for Resilient Mangrove Crab Aquaculture: Tracking Viral and Bacterial Pathogens
by Christopher Marlowe A. Caipang, Ph.D.
Key Message: Early disease detection strengthens farm stability, reduces losses, and ensures reliable production even amid health challenges.

🔹 Use of aquaGRIS as a Global Mechanism for Ensuring Sustainable Use and Management of Aquatic Genetic Resources
by Maria Rowena Romana-Eguia, Ph.D.
Key Message: Systematic resource management and information sharing protect biodiversity, support innovation, and secure resources for future generations.

Our program concluded with another lively and engaging open forum, again led by Mary-Nia M. Santos, Ph.D.. This session provided valuable space to exchange thoughts, clarify concepts, and identify new opportunities for collaboration.

We extend our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed hosts:
Department of Agriculture – National Fisheries Research and Development Institute, Fisheries Biotechnology Center (DA-NFRDI FBC), in collaboration with Mindanao State University at Naawan. Your meticulous planning, seamless ex*****on, and warm hospitality delivered an event of exceptional quality and established a platform that fosters collaboration, drives progress, and delivers enduring value. We are privileged to participate and commend your dedication to advancing scientific and industrial development.

This significant event was held in Initao, Misamis Oriental on April 22–23, 2026.

LOOK || The Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) successfully held the Contract Signing Ceremony and Awarding of EnABLeRex Thesis Grantees on April 16, 2026, at the Research Innovation and Extension Office.

The activity was organized by the Office of the Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension (OVPRIE), headed by OIC-VP Dr. Maila V. Pan, together with the Director for Research and Development, Ms. Aldette D. Navarro, and the Director for Technopreneurship and Innovation, Dr. Marlon Dennis D. Ochoa, with the strong support of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Services, Dr. Rachelle D. Lauriaga.

During the ceremony, Emilia Foundation President Engr. Cornelio R. Reformina Jr. emphasized the importance of research in bridging the gap between industry and academia, highlighting the need for research outputs that are relevant and application-oriented. He further noted that despite limitations in resources, the institution continues to produce quality research outputs that reflect its commitment to academic excellence.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to EnABLEReX of the Emilia Foundation for supporting and empowering student researchers through the Thesis Grant Program. This initiative continues to uplift aspiring professionals by providing financial assistance and motivation to pursue quality research.

The EnABLEReX research grants were awarded to the following recipients:

Undergraduate Category:

1. Jahara A. Daguinotas, Aljaver A. Jammang, and Lijawati B. Kahal

2. Abdulwas D. Assahari, Warlito M. Bajo III, John Cedrick B. Cutaran, and Radzmir T. Sauragal

3. Jenefer M. Abel, Hannah Shane F. Bustillo, Gillord D. Cascara, and Licerie Claire R. Tanggap

4. Poala Jean H. Badayos, Jeraldine G. Ferrer, and Shyna Mae E. Mabia

5. Euri O. Palgan, Mark Angelou Ganados, Mohammad Taisseer J. Hassan, Bernard B. Gutoman, and Fadzmalyn Ahid

6. Nur-Aina S. Dagot, John Paul G. Bautista, and Mark James G. Abao

7. Ma. Dbe J. Elcamel, Julie Mae M. Gallocanta, and Lloyd B. Ologuin

8. Joraiza P. Ismael, Shaima S. Ladjamurah, Mark Andrew C. Pedro, and Ronald C. Pedro

9. Jopayra L. Abunawas, Parha L. Lantong, Lenny T. Lawadin, and Nurhana S. Nahul

Graduate Category:

1. Loriemin E. Diaz

2. Ace M. Alejandro and Dr. Oliver D. Tito

To those who were not selected, your efforts and contributions are deeply appreciated. Thank you for participating and for believing in your research ideas. May this experience inspire you to continue pursuing your goals, strengthen your resilience, and further contribute meaningful knowledge to your respective fields.

To all grantees, may this recognition inspire you to strive further, innovate, and make a lasting impact. And to EnABLEReX, thank you for believing in us and for your continued support of our academic journey.

🌊✨ CAPTURE FISHERIES | BSFi ✨🌊

A journey driven by purpose, fueled by passion, and filled with unforgettable moments 💙

From day one, BSFi 3rd year students showcased energy, enthusiasm, and commitment as we conducted engaging talks, hands-on demonstrations, and meaningful knowledge-sharing with the fishermen of Barangay Bolong. It wasn’t just about teaching it became a powerful exchange of wisdom, lived experiences, and practical fisheries knowledge that bridged classroom learning with real-world application.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome and genuine hospitality of the officials and residents of Barangay Bolong, Zamboanga City. Your kindness and support made this experience not only successful, but truly meaningful and memorable.

As the sun set, we embraced a night of recollection, taking time to reflect on our experiences, strengthen our bond as a group, and reconnect with our purpose as future fisheries professionals committed to service and sustainability.

The learning continued the next day with immersive, hands-on activities. From casting nets, beach seining, trap retrieving, and handline fishing, to understanding local fishing practices, every experience deepened our appreciation of the fisheries sector and the communities behind it. Each moment became a living lesson beyond the classroom.

We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to CHED Region IX and Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology for their continuous support in making this educational activity possible.

Most especially, we extend our deepest gratitude to the local fishermen of Barangay Bolong for generously sharing their time, knowledge, and skills your contributions truly made this experience authentic and impactful. 💙

Special thanks as well to Barangay Captain Mr. Ruben G. Coros for his leadership, support, and warm accommodation, which greatly contributed to the success of this activity.

We would also like to acknowledge the guidance and supervision of our instructor, Ms. Judia N. Gonzaga, whose support and mentorship ensured the success and smooth conduct of this field activity.

This field trip reminded us that true education goes beyond books it is found in communities, in shared experiences, and in the people who inspire us along the way.

📍 Barangay Bolong, Zamboanga City
📅 March 28–29, 2026

“Learning Beyond The Classroom” 🌟

🌊✨ CAPTURE FISHERIES | BSFi ✨🌊

A journey driven by purpose, fueled by passion, and filled with unforgettable moments 💙

From day one, BSFi 3rd year students showcased energy, enthusiasm, and commitment as we conducted engaging talks, hands-on demonstrations, and meaningful knowledge-sharing with the fishermen of Barangay Bolong. It wasn’t just about teaching it became a powerful exchange of wisdom, lived experiences, and practical fisheries knowledge that bridged classroom learning with real-world application.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome and genuine hospitality of the officials and residents of Barangay Bolong, Zamboanga City. Your kindness and support made this experience not only successful, but truly meaningful and memorable.

As the sun set, we embraced a night of recollection, taking time to reflect on our experiences, strengthen our bond as a group, and reconnect with our purpose as future fisheries professionals committed to service and sustainability.

The learning continued the next day with immersive, hands-on activities. From casting nets, beach seining, trap retrieving, and handline fishing, to understanding local fishing practices, every experience deepened our appreciation of the fisheries sector and the communities behind it. Each moment became a living lesson beyond the classroom.

We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to CHED Region IX and Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology for their continuous support in making this educational activity possible.

Most especially, we extend our deepest gratitude to the local fishermen of Barangay Bolong for generously sharing their time, knowledge, and skills your contributions truly made this experience authentic and impactful. 💙

Special thanks as well to Barangay Captain Mr. Ruben G. Coros for his leadership, support, and warm accommodation, which greatly contributed to the success of this activity.

We would also like to acknowledge the guidance and supervision of our instructor, Ms. Judia N. Gonzaga, whose support and mentorship ensured the success and smooth conduct of this field activity.

This field trip reminded us that true education goes beyond books it is found in communities, in shared experiences, and in the people who inspire us along the way.

📍 Barangay Bolong, Zamboanga City
📅 March 28–29, 2026

“Learning Beyond The Classroom” 🌟

This week, BSFI – 3A and 3B worked together in a meaningful environmental activity. As part of our commitment to sustainability and responsible aquaculture practices, we conducted a cleanup drive to remove accumulated garbage and restore the area’s cleanliness.

Through teamwork, cooperation, and shared responsibility, we were able to make a positive impact on the environment. This experience reminded us that protecting our aquatic resources starts with simple actions.

Together, we proved that unity and dedication can create real change for a cleaner and healthier ecosystem. 🌊♻️🌱

𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 | Solidarity Walk 2026: “De Aton El Kinse” 🌊🐟

Before sunrise, students, faculty, government agencies, NGOs, and fisheries stakeholders united for Solidarity Walk 2026: “De Aton El Kinse,” a strong call to protect municipal waters and the rights of small-scale fishers.

Participants from the College of Fisheries and Allied Sciences (CFAS)—BS Fisheries, BS Aquaculture, BS Marine Fisheries Technology, BS Environmental Science, and NSTP—joined partners from Too Big To Ignore (TBTI) Philippines, Oceana Philippines, BFAR Region IX, LGU–Office of the City Agriculturist (OCA), CMFARC, Action Against Hunger, and other stakeholders in a symbolic walk across Zamboanga City starting 3:30 AM from ZSCMST Grounds – Site A, along Veterans Avenue, Gov. Camins Avenue, and R.T. Lim Boulevard.

The program formally opened with a welcome message delivered by Dr. Maila V. Pan, representing the ZSCMST President, followed by “Solidarity Messages: Voices of the Sea.” Key leaders and advocates delivered powerful messages during the event. Starting with Dr. Clement Camposano, Chancellor of the UP Visayas, honored fishers “who wake early to brave the sea and feed the nation,” highlighting the need to strengthen coastal livelihoods and environmental stewardship. DIR. Al-Zath Kunting, RD of BFAR Region IX, reaffirmed government support for the advocacy “De Aton El Kinse.” Mr. Arben Macdugo, OCA -represented by Ms. Hizel Herminado-Sioko, reiterated the LGU’s commitment to safeguarding municipal fishers. Dr. Alice Joan Ferrer, Executive Director of Too Big To Ignore Philippines, emphasized that small-scale fisheries are truly “Too Big To Ignore” for their vital role in food security and coastal livelihoods. Meanwhile, Dr. Maila V. Pan, VPRIE of ZSCMST, underscored that small-scale fishers, though often unseen, are “like plankton in the sea—minute yet essential,” sustaining coastal communities and the national fisheries economy.

The event also featured keynote discussions on the legal and scientific implications of the Supreme Court ruling allowing commercial fishing closer to municipal waters. Mr. Danny Ocampo, Senior Campaign Manager of Oceana Philippines, emphasized the need to uphold the 15-kilometer municipal waters provision under the Philippine Fisheries Code to protect the rights and livelihoods of small-scale fishers, while Dr. Wilfredo Campos, retired professor from the UP Visayas, highlighted the potential ecological consequences of allowing commercial fishing closer to municipal waters, including fish stock depletion, increased fishing pressure, habitat impacts, and intensified competition between municipal and commercial fisheries.

One of the major highlight was the launch of Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) information materials led by Dr. Maila V. Pan, translated into Chavacano, Yakan, Sinama, and Tausug to expand awareness among local fishing communities. These materials were distributed to stakeholders to strengthen grassroots advocacy. Following this initiative, participants also signed the Declaration of Unity pledge wall, affirming a shared commitment to protect municipal waters and uphold the rights of small-scale fishers.

As the event concluded, Dr. Rocelyn Alabata, Vice-President for Student Affairs and Services of ZSCMST, called on participants to embody the WAVE advocacy—becoming Watchers for the Sea, Advocates of sustainable fisheries, Voices of coastal communities, and champions for the Empowerment of small-scale fishers.

Solidarity Walk 2026: De Aton El Kinse!! Huntu huntu kita continua pati man ayudahan para protekta el diaton mga peskador pati el diaton mga mar.



🌊🐟

HAPPENING NOW | De Aton El Kinse: "Small Boats, Big Voices: A Walk for a Cause to Protect the Municipal Waters and Small-Scale Fisheries in the Philippines"

Students, faculty, and supporters are currently gathered for the De Aton El Kinse Solidarity Walk, standing together in unity and collective action. This walk symbolizes our shared commitment to voice our concerns, strengthen solidarity, and move forward as one community.

With banners raised and spirits high, participants march together to express support, awareness, and unity for the cause.

Padayon sa pakig-uban. Padayon sa pakigbisog.