FY 2021 NFRDI Annual Report by National Fisheries Research and Development Institute

DA-NFRDI Annual Report 2021

Published by Department of Agriculture

National Fisheries Research and Development Institute

Corporate 101 Mother Ignacia Avenue, South Triangle, Quezon City, Philippines 1103

Email: nfrdippid@gmail.com

ISSN: 2960-3897 (Print) 2960-3978 (Online)

Citation

National Fisheries Research and Development Institute. (2021). DA-NFRDI Annual Report 2021. DA-NFRDI.

Editor

Marites B. Chiuco

Maria Theresa T. Oclos

Mirriam F. Cayme

Tyronne James J. Buico

Design and Layout

Jolimar Tatoy

Adviser

Dr. Lilian C. Garcia, CESO V

Annual Report

ABOUT US

MANDATE

The Philippine Fisheries Code of 1988 or Republic Act No. 8550 (as amended by Republic Act No. 10654), Section 82, created the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) in recognition of the important role of fisheries research in the development, management, conservation and protection of the country’s fisheries and aquatic resources.

In 2020, NFRDI was formally recognized as an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the primary research arm of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). It also forms part of the national research and development network of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The overall governance of the Institute is vested with the Governing Board which shall formulate policy guidelines for its operation.

The Institute is mandated to lead in the development and maximum use of technologies, knowledge and information for the benefit of its stakeholders, and to contribute to food security and increased profit from fisheries. The agency is also tasked to ensure rational and sustainable development, management and conservation of fishery and aquatic resources in Philippine waters including EEZ and adjacent high-seas, to reduce poverty incidence in the sector by enabling and empowering fisherfolk and their families, and to improve global acceptability of Philippine fishery products.

VISION

By 2025, a leader in fisheries research for development towards a food-secure and resilient Philippines with empowered and prosperous fisherfolk industry

MISSION

To generate scientific knowledge and technologies that is responsive to the needs of the fisherfolk and fisheries industry.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report highlights the physical and financial accomplishments of NFRDI covering January to December 31, 2021. The Institute has received a total budget of ₱ 316,289,825.00. The funds came from the approved FY 2021 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and Special Allotment Release Order which amounted to ₱ 290,857,000.00 and ₱ 25,432,825.00, respectively.

The FY 2021 budget breakdown are as follows: 1) Personnel Services (PS)- ₱ 63,695,825.00; 2) Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE)- ₱ 252,189,000.00; and, 3) Capital Outlay (CO)₱ 405,000.00.

As of December 31, 2021, NFRDI has obligated ₱ 312,050,434.59 or 98.66% of its budget and incurred a disbursement of ₱ 289,365,191.07 or 92.73%.

Based from DA-wide agency performance assessment, the DBM commended NFRDI for having met all of its physical targets and one of the top performing agencies in terms of financial obligation and disbursement.

NFRDI’s sectoral goal is aligned with DA’s vision of “A food-secure and resilient Philippines with empowered and prosperous farmers and fisherfolk”. It has broadened its research for development efforts on fields of aquaculture, capture fisheries, and postharvest towards technology transfer and information utilization.

The Institute implemented thirty-two (32) regular projects and twenty-two (22) externally funded projects in collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), its Regional Field Offices (RFOs) and National Production Centers, DA-Philippine Rural Development Program (DA-PRDP), DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR), DA-Biotech Program, DOSTPhilippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST -PCAARRD), Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC), UNEP-GIZ, and Western and Central Pacific Fishery Commission (WCFPC).

The results of the R&D projects generated information and technologies for dissemination to fisheries stakeholders that are aimed to increase fish production, improve income of fisherfolks, and to promote conservation and restoration of commercially important fish species.

In terms of physical accomplishments, the Institute produced 47 policy recommendations which were generated from the conduct of the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP) for 42 species that exhibited signs of overfishing in the 11 Fishery Management Areas (FMAs) of the country. Scientific advisories on the state of resources are important in the decision making of BFAR, FMA Management Boards and other policy-making bodies for crafting of appropriate policies and guidelines, plan and strategies for science-based management of aquatic resources and to ensure sustainability of wild stocks in capture fisheries.

For the organizational outcomes, there are twelve (12) policy recommendations and technologies adopted for FY 2021 as follows:

1) Amendment of BFAR FOO 199 series of 2019: Guidelines on the Implementation of the Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa (BASIL) Program on the conduct of risk assessment for introduction of new species; 2) BFAR Fisheries Administrative Order No. 265 - Regulation on the catching, possession, transporting, selling, trading, and exporting of Puerulus, juvenile and gravid spiny lobsters (Panuliridae); 3) Scientific inputs for the National Blue Swimming Crab Management Plan; 4) Scientific inputs for the Octopus National Management Plan; 5) Six (6) matured aquaculture technologies adopted by BFAR Regions, LGUs and fisherfolk partners on the conduct of technology promotion projects including guidance and support to cooperatives; 6) Digital Information Technology Access - National Stock Assessment Interactive Atlas Web Application; 7) Digital Weather Advisory for Fisherfolk - ISDApp Technology.

Technical assistance rendered to clients reached a total of 199 from conduct of laboratory analyses, advisory services, and as technical resource person to various seminars, fora, and other scientific information exchange activities.

As a mode of technology transfer and extension, NFRDI conducted client-based and internship training programs. A total of eight (8) client-based trainings involving 220 participants were conducted in collaboration with Villar Sipag Foundation, BFAR Central Office & Regional Field Offices and Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) – Aquaculture Department. Moreover, a total of 300 interns were capacitated under the Training for Fisheries Youth Program for the development of future leaders, skilled industry, and government workers and, entrepreneurs.

To mainstream information dissemination to public, the 9th Fisheries Scientific Conference (FishSciCon) was held via virtual platform with the theme, “Pangisdaan ay Paunlarin, Pananaliksik ay Gamitin upang Masaganang Ani at Mataas Na Kita ay Makamit Natin”. The conference provided a venue for national and international researchers, students, and stakeholders in the field of fisheries to present relevant research and advancements towards attaining sustainable fisheries and food security.

Eight (8) books were also launched as part of the conference activities as follows: 1) Freshwater Eel: Culture Industry Practices in the Philippines, where, a documentation of various industry practices, including glass eel collection, nursery and grow-out culture and, marketing aspects was provided; 2) seven (7) Fish Guidebooks - an inventory of finfish resources in major fishing grounds of Region 5 as an offshoot publication of the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP).

A total of 5,811 Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials distributed to BFAR Regional Field Offices, academe, and other stakeholders.

Under the professionalization pillar, the Institute produced two new scientists namely, Dr. Maria Theresa M. Mutia, Center Chief of the Freshwater Fisheries Research and Development Center (NFRDI-FFRDC) and Dr. Casiano H. Choresca, Jr., Senior Science Research Specialist of the Brackishwater Fisheries Research and Development Center (NFRDI-BFRDC).

Performance report from the Civil Service Commission through the Contact Center ng Bayan, a feedback facility for government service delivery, disclosed that NFRDI received no public complaint covering January 1 to December 31, 2021.

Lastly, the Commission on Audit (COA) rated the NFRDI an "Unmodified Opinion" report for its FY 2021 financial statements. An "Unmodified/Unqualified Opinion" is the highest possible audit grade for government offices. For two years straight, the COA has given NFRDI "Unqualified/Unmodified” rating in all its financial statements.

As a focal Agency in fisheries research of the Department of Agriculture, the NFRDI is committed to pursue more relevant, timely and responsive contributions to fisherfolk and industry to sustain growth of the fisheries sector.

MESSAGE FROM THE DA SECRETARY

In 2021, the state of our country’s agriculture sector continued to reel from the effects of the COVID pandemic, infectious animal diseases, crop infestations, and a spate of typhoons. In fact, Typhoon Odette alone left a staggering ₱9 billion worth of damages to crops and farm areas across 11 regions, affecting at least 132,658 farmers and fisherfolks.

The Department of Agriculture, under the OneDA Reform Agenda and its four key pillars of consolidation, modernization, industrialization and professionalization as its policy framework, aims to holistically transform and improve the resiliency of the sector. Despite the prevailing pandemic and the onslaught of typhoons, the DA managed to modestly kept the country’s food supply afloat during the year. To this end, our efforts to address food security needs to continue in these dire times, as well as to augment the earnings of our farmers and fishers whose livelihoods were dashed by the pandemic and typhoons.

As we shift our paradigm to the “New Thinking” and to sustain our momentum, it is imperative that we increase our R&D investments and optimize the potentials of science for the benefit of the general public. Research must deliver actual innovative results that can be truly utilized, integrated in the value chain, and deliver increased agri-productivity and management efficiencies.

One of our major thrusts is to modernize our research capabilities, particularly in the field of biotechnology. We are confident that by strengthening our research, the desired effects will ultimately trickle down to the grassroots level to benefit our heroes – the farmers and fishers.

Allow me, therefore, to commend everyone in the NFRDI for another productive year. Through your united talents, hard work, and with the full-support of our industry partners. Armed with resilience and resolve to improve, our dream for a food-secure and resilient Philippines with empowered and prosperous farmers and fisherfolk remains within our reach. Mabuhay po tayong lahat!

WILLIAM D. DAR, Ph.D. Secretary

MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNING BOARD CHAIRPERSON

We are also beefing up our aquaculture program and pushing for the expansion of mariculture parks and agribusiness corridors in fishery management areas.

Likewise, our support systems for fishery hubs will soon rise and operate across the country, equipped with modern technology, processing centers, and agribusiness schools, to maximize technology commercialization and entrepreneurship. We need to harness modern and digital technologies in boosting productivity, pour in more funds for aquaculture and fisheries, and foster greater coordination with the local government units.

NFRDI must take on these challenges and strive further to ensure that their R&D efforts translate into fisheries productivity, growth and competitiveness of the sector.

In behalf of the Governing Board, we congratulate NFRDI for another year of productive service to the country.

CHERYL MARIE NATIVIDAD CABALLERO

Undersecretary for Agri-Industrialization and for Fisheries and Chairperson, NFRDI Governing Board

some of these species from the research activities undertaken.

Another important agenda is to ensure fish sustainability. Productive stewardship of our natural fishery resources from capture fisheries must be balanced with policies, management systems and efforts in the fishery sector that can be institutionalized and implemented down to the barangay level. As a science provider for the industry, policy decisions should be science-based. Policy reforms are also necessary to ensure the protection and rehabilitation of our resources and habitats. We have forwarded the state of 47 stocks, comprising of 42 species, in the different Fishery Management Areas (FMAs) as a result of our National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP) to be used for appropriate planning, policy decision making and strategic formulation of programs within the FMAs through out the country.

In order to cope with the challenges brought by the pandemic, NFRDI also adopted the use of different online platforms in cascading various training, education and information support services. We are also improving our internal management and financial systems to deliver more efficient and effective services to the public.

We have the momentum on our side. We will work to maintain this momentum by enhancing our research capabilities in the future. This way, our stakeholders would continue to benefit from its positive and lasting impact. With the continued guidance and support of our DA Secretary William D. Dar, Undersecretary for Agri-Industrialization and Fisheries Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero, and our Governing Board, we are positive that we can achieve the goals we have set.

Maraming salamat at mabuhay ang sector ng pangisdaan!

DR. LILIAN C. GARCIA, CESO V ExecutiveDirector

PERFORMANCE REPORT

The Institute received a total budget of ₱316,289,825.00 from the FY 2021 General Appropriation Act (GAA) and Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) amounting to ₱290,857,000.00 and ₱25,432,825.00, respectively.

The budget’s breakdown by expense class are as follows: Personnel Services (PS) – ₱63,695,825.00, Maintenance and Operating and Other Expenses (MOOE) –₱252,189,000.00, and Capital Outlay (CO)₱405,000.00.

As of December 31, 2021, NFRDI obligated ₱312,050,434.59 (98.66%) and disbursed a total amount of ₱289,365,191.07 (92.73%). Unpaid obligations of 7.27% (₱22,685,243.52) resulted from delayed delivery of some procured supplies and equipment.

FY 2021 BUDGET ALLOCATION (₱)

FY 2021 PHYSICAL TARGETS VIS-À-VIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Fisheries Research and Development Program Outcome Indicators

Output Indicators

of requests for technical

of clients that rated the technical services rendered/ networked as satisfactory or better

*Achievedbeyond target

policy recommendations and

Policy Recommendations

technical services rendered were rated very satisfactory

OUR RESEARCH PRODUCTS

Notable accomplishments of the Institute include 47 policy recommendations generated from the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP) for forty-two (42) species that exhibited signs of overfishing in 11 out of 12 Fishery Management Areas (FMAs) of the country. Scientific advisories on the state of resources are important for informed decision making of BFAR and concerned FMA Management Bodies in crafting appropriate policies and guidelines, plan, and strategies for science-based management of aquatic resources and to ensure sustainability of wild stocks in capture fisheries.

For the organizational outcomes, there are twelve (12) policy recommendations and technologies adopted for FY 2021. These are the following:

1. Amendment of BFAR FOO 199 series of 2019: Guidelines on the Implementation of the Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa (BASIL) Program on the conduct of risk assessment for introduction of new species.

2. BFAR Fisheries Administrative Order No. 265 - Regulation on the catching, possession, transporting, selling, trading, and exporting of Puerulus, juvenile and gravid spiny lobsters (Panuliridae).

3. Scientific inputs for the National Blue Swimming Crab Management Plan.

4. Scientific inputs for the Octopus National Management Plan.

5. Six (6) matured aquaculture technologies adopted by BFAR Regions, LGUs and fisherfolk partners on the conduct of technology promotion projects including guidance and support to cooperatives.

6. Digital Information Technology Access - National Stock Assessment Interactive Atlas Web Application- A knowledge management platform for public information sharing of regional catch and effort data, interactive maps and downloadable reports of the National Stock Assessment Program developed by the NFRDI in partnership with NSAP-BFAR Field Regional Offices.

7. Digital Weather Advisory for Fisherfolk - ISDApp Technology in collaboration with Globe and iNON IT Solutions, BFAR Regions 3 and 4-A, LGUs and fisherfolk partners.

FISHERIES RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Aquaculture Fisheries | Capture Fisheries | Fisheries Postharvest

AQUACULTURE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Overall Goal Development and dissemination of sustainable aquaculture technologies that catalyzes growth and enhances profit of the industry

Outcome Annual increase of fish production from aquaculture, species diversification, source of livelihood and profit to stakeholders

Strategy Strengthening scientific discoveries and technology innovations

TECHNOLOGY PROMOTION PROJECTS

Milkfish Nursery Production in Ponds

Milkfish is one of the aquaculture commodities where the country has a competitive advantage. With the expansion of mariculture activities, constant supply of fingerlings is needed. The technology on milkfish nursery production in ponds as a livelihood option is being promoted to aid pond operators attain quality seedstock and higher economic yield.

Seven pond cooperators from Leyte and Eastern Samar were provided with a total of 821,000 fry. Of these, 508,099 fingerlings were produced and dispersed to 37 grow-out operators that translated into additional 89.65

Outscaling of village-level hatchery and nursery rearing of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

To ensure sustainable quality seed stock of tilapia, village level hatcheries and nurseries were engaged through adoption of matured seed production technology based from SEAFDEC and BFAR protocols on tilapia fry and fingerlings production. Five tilapia hatchery cooperators in San Nicolas, Batangas, Calamba and Calauan, Laguna and five nursery cooperators in San Luis and Laurel, Batangas were provided with agricultural inputs, such as breeders, fry, feeds, among others. A total of 20,293,400 fry were produced in six larval rearing cycles and 7,410,876 fingerlings in four nursery rearing cycles. An average income of ₱115,536.00 for hatchery operators and ₱61,264.48 for nursery operators was generated. The produced fingerlings were sold to fish cage farmers in San Nicolas, Laurel, San Luis, Agoncillo and Talisay, Batangas.

Best practices learned by cooperators include the following: proper pond levelling, appropriate lime and fertilizer application, selection and pairing of healthy breeders, proper acclimatization during stocking of fry, best timing of harvesting fingerlings, record keeping of feeding, fish growth and mortality, farm activities and expenses, ensuring buyers before stocking of breeders/fry, and maintaining a good and harmonious relationship with farm workers. The project was successful in providing appropriate knowledge and skills for the continuous supply of quality fingerlings in their community.

Tilapia breeders and breeder conditioning in hapas

Stocking of milkfish fry for nursery rearing

Induced breeding of Mudfish (Channa striata) and Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus) in captivity

Mudfish, Channa striata commonly known as snakehead and locally known as dalag or haruan is considered as one of the most economically important freshwater species due to its good taste and high nutritional value. Despite its potential for aquaculture, culture of this species in the Philippines has not yet been fully explored.

Induced breeding in captivity was successful using Salmon Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Analogue (sGnRHa) using the dosage of 0.5ml/kg with a hatching rate of 89.70% and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) using the dosage of 1,000 IU/kg of fish with 82.05% survival rate.

Comparison of latency period, incubation period (A), relative fecundity (B), fertilization rate, and hatching rate (C) of mudfish using different dosages of sGnRHa.

Comparison of latency period, incubation period (A), relative fecundity (B), fertilization rate, and hatching rate (C) of mudfish using different dosages of HCG

Climbing perch, Anabas testudineus, locally known as ‘martiniko ‘or ‘puyu’ is an air-breathing fish species that inhabits the freshwater and brackish water of many south and Southeast Asian countries. It is now one of the high commercial valued farm fishes and is getting more popular among fishfarmers due to its taste and high market demand.

Successful induced spawning was attained using Salmon Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Analogue (sGnRHa/Ovulin™) hormone with a dosage of 10, 20, and 30μg/kg and Leutenizing Hormone Releasing Hormone Analog (LHRHa Ovupin) with a dosage of 3, 5 and 7μg/kg.

Unique haplotypes of Nile Tilapia improvedPhilippinestrains

Genetic assessment of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus using molecular biology tools aimed to ensure continuous production of quality broodstock. These techniques can also contribute to further improve the broodstock gene pool by selecting individuals that can be mated without decreasing the genetic diversity of succeeding F1 generations. It can also accelerate the genetic improvement of these traits in relation to fish genotypes.

Haplotype diversity analysis was performed using DnaSP6 and PopART programs. Thirty iExCEL trimmed and aligned DNA sequences were subjected to DnaSP6 program analysis to generate haplotype data. Unique haplotype data results were subjected to PopART for the visualization of distribution and distances. The elucidations of seven (7) for iExCEL unique haplotypes were generated. The identified unique haplotypes of the said strain will be used to design tilapia breeding plan/programs to evaluate production capacity and efficiency of broodstocks. Superior strains will be used as founder stocks in the continuous genetic improvement and production of nile tilapia.

Haplotype analysis of iExCEL families resulting to 7 unique haplotypes

Egg and fry Collection (A), sampling and counting of egg and fry (B), artificial incubation of collected eggs and yolk sac fry (C), and stocking of collected fry in 1x1m

Embryonic development of climbing perch from induced breeding at 300C

fine mesh hapa

Broodstock improvement of siganids

The feasibility of selective breeding in siganids is being explored to develop better broodstock that could eventually intensify the development of quality, fast-growing and resilient strains. Created a set of primers for pure species identification, differentiating S. guttatus and S. vermiculatus. Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) was designed to identify S. guttatus and S. vermiculatus, which is a more conserved and more consistent gene region. A mitochondrial phylogeny of 20 siganid samples was produced to infer their evolutionary history. The tree shows distinct groupings of S. guttatus species and their relations to S. vermiculatus and the hybrids. Understanding the genetic diversity and speciation patterns of siganids would lead to geneticallyimproved broodstocks and DNA-based selection to maximize reproductive capacity and efficiency performance in hatchery and grow-out production.

Phylogenetic tree for COI sequence data. The tree was generated from 20 siganid samples with 5 of the closest matches (percent identity) of each pure species in the NCBI BLAST.

Seaweeds remain to be the top aquaculture and export commodity in fisheries contributing significantly to the Philippine economy in terms of production, trade, and employment. Despite the strengths and opportunities, the Philippine seaweed industry is beset with a problem of declining production due to diseases, climate change and deteriorating quality of seaweed. Field performance of tissue cultured propagules vis-a-vis wild stocks collected from Bacon and Prieto Diaz, Sorsogon were compared. After 60 days of culture, higher daily growth rate (DGR) was recorded from laboratory grown propagules (i.e., Bulusan) at 1.62% while wild stocks from Bacon registered 1.25% DGR and the propagules from Prieto Diaz recorded negative DGR due to severe infestation of epiphytes and ice-ice disease.

Sample propagules of Kappaphycus alvarezii from different municipalities used in comparative study

Out-planted propagules in cultivation lines

Outplanting of laboratory grown Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed propagules

Biotechnological Approaches in Fish Health Management

Rapid detection and identification of pathogens is vital for effective aquatic disease management. Biotechnological approaches such as molecular identification and diagnostic methods, development and use of vaccines and immune stimulants are gaining popularity for improving the disease resistance in fish species.

Optimized detection protocol for Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV)

The establishment of a molecular diagnostic detection method for Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV) is important to advance defense on the said viral disease. Eyngor and colleagues (2014) were able to associate the massive death of tilapia in Ecuador and Israel from a novel virus which was initially called Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV).

TiLV detection was conducted using semi-nested RTPCR to detect segment 3 (250 bp and/or 415 bp) of the TiLV genome. Detection of a single band on 250 bp indicates light infection and presence of double bands pertains to heavy infection. Results showed that out of 315 samples collected from private farms and hatcheries in 7 different regions, 13 adult and 7 fingerling samples were positive in the 250 bp band for TiLV indicative of light infection and 1 with heavy infection (250 bp and 415 bp band). The sequences of the samples shared the nucleotide identity to Thailand (KY381578.1), Egypt (KY817384.1), and Philippine (LC504279.1) strains. RTPCR and RT-qPCR detection methods for TiLV were optimized.

Diagnostic protocols established are essential in surveillance, management and control of tilapia diseases by BFAR Fish Health Laboratories. Molecular methods can also be used as confirmatory tests among disease positive samples.

Optimized RPA bacterial detection method

The study on the molecular identification of bacterial tilapia diseases and other emerging bacterial pathogens in freshwater fishes aimed to identify, isolate and characterize bacterial pathogens causing massive mortalities in fish including Streptococcus species and other pathogens. A total of 421 fish (moribund and apparently healthy) were collected from the six (6) regions in the Philippines (Regions I, III, IVA, V, VI, and XIII). Swabs of bacterial sample were isolated using commercially available media such as trypticase soy agar (TSA), Thiosulfate citrate bile salts sucrose (TCBS) and blood agar (BAP). Representative bacterial isolates were also subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) using selected antibiotics licensed for use in global aquaculture. Conserved region of bacteria was amplified using 16s rRNA primers, and representative bacterial isolates were sent for sequencing analysis. Molecularly identified isolates are Streptococcus agalactiae (98.79%), Streptococcus dysgalactiae (99.75%), Aeromonas hydrophila (99.69%), Aeromonas veronii (99.85%), Aeromonas dhakensis (99.56%), Aeromonas jandaei (96.99%), Aeromonas taiwanensis (99.36%), Edwardsiella tarda (99.02%), Vibrio harveyi (98.93%), Vibrio cholera (99.93%) Vibrio panuliri (95.33%), Vibrio vulnificus (92.13%), Vibrio ponticus (96.29%), Vibrio campbelli (99.27%), Vibrio brasiliensis (99.29%), Acinetobacter johnsonii (96.51%), Acinetobacter junii (96.74%), Acinetobacter nosocomialis (98.10%), Plesiomonas shigelloides (99.52%) and Shewanella decolorationis (98.33%). Occurrence of tetracycline-resistance genes (Classes A, B, C, D and E) were also detected on Aeromonas sp. and Vibrio sp. isolates, as well as the detection ofother virulence genes using literature-based primers. Optimization of recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assay was also performed and can be used as detection methods for bacterial pathogens in aquaculture.

A) body discoloration, (B) diseased tilapia with exophthalmia and corneal opacity, (C) abnormal body size and caudal fin rot and (D) diseased tilapia with ruptured internal organs

Sample collection of tilapia for RNA extraction

CAPTURE FISHERIES RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Overall Goal Rational utilization, development and management of resources through provision of best available scientific information to ensure sustainability of harvesting wild stocks.

Outcome Annual increase of fish production from capture fisheries, species diversification, source of livelihood and profit to stakeholders

Strategy Ensuring Long-term Sustainability of Capture Fisheries

National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP)

The NSAP has forwarded 47 policy recommendations and scientific advisories, covering 42 species, to the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) for crafting of appropriate policies and guidelines for the management of aquatic resources.

The program conducts assessment of major pelagic and demersal species in major fishing grounds of the country through establishment of standardized time series and biological data by fishing ground, which are fundamental to science-based fisheries management, formulation of policies, plans, and strategies.

Aside from providing science-based information, NSAP also develops the capacity of human resources in various regions in areas of resource assessment and management.

Information support for specific fishery management engagements such as tuna catch data compliance being submitted to the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), monitoring and evaluation of closed seasons for sardine fishery in Zamboanga Peninsula, Visayan Sea and Davao Gulf closures and even inputs to climate change-related activities under the Climate Change Commission.

NSAP Interactive ATLAS Web Application

NFRDI developed the NSAP Interactive Atlas, a web application that provides real-time information access from various fish landing areas of the country. This platform provides standardized information on regional catch data for utilization of policy makers and other stakeholders.

Its main features are as follows:

1. NSAP 3D Map provides a platform for users to navigate the Philippine Map through searching of places near you to see the list of landing centers across the country and know the relevant data in the area;

2. Catch Data Explorer enables the users to sort out their desired information on annual/ monthly total landed catch trends per region and per species;

3. Collection of summary reports which shows detailed and specific annual/monthly total landed catch trends per region, per species, and fishing gear on NSAP Quick Reports;

4. Fishbase Plugin is made readily accessible to provide a quick reference on species data, which includes information on taxonomy, geographical distribution, biometrics and morphology, behavior and habitats, ecology and population dynamics as well as reproductive, metabolic and genetic data;

5. Downloadable reports by creating a free account and logging in to the system; and,

6. Quick Access on NSAP Publications provides quick access to NSAP published scientific papers, fish guide books, Atlases and many more.

Spatial distribution maps of Sargassum for sustainable fishery resource management

The study generated spatial distribution maps of Sargassum species that will be useful for national and local governments for their plans and targets as well as for the formulation of national policies and municipal ordinances. Ground truthing and remote sensing are essential and useful tools to get an accurate assessment of the coastal resources in the marine ecosystem. This was the first attempt in the Philippines to use Landsat data for remote sensing of seaweeds, specifically Sargassum. The use of higher resolution satellite images other than the 30 meter resolution Landsat may produce a more accurate inference. Remote sensing using Landsat-8 images and field coordinates produce estimation of Sargassum covers from 72.2% to 96.2%. With the use of UAV images which have higher resolution, more accurate mapping of Sargassum was produced with 90.24% to 96.30% though with limited scope.

NSAP Interactive Atlas Web Home Screen

Spatial Distribution of Sargassum spp. in Quezon

Spatial Distribution of Sargassum spp. in Bohol

Nationwide Vulnerability and Suitability Assessment and Mapping for Capture Fisheries and Aquaculture Sectors

Climate change is a threat to human life, society's way of life, biodiversity, economy and food security. The country should be prepared for the emerging effects of climate change, particularly in the fisheries sector.

NFRDI developed the Fisheries Vulnerability Assessment Tool (Fish Vool) to assess the status and vulnerability of the fishery sector to support continued fish productivity and food security.

Twelve vulnerability maps for capture and aquaculture were generated.

Suitability maps for capture fisheries were produced for indian mackerel, skipjack tuna, bigeye scad, yellowfin tuna, dolphin fish and yellowtail scad using NSAP grid maps. For aquaculture species, suitability maps for milkfish and tilapia were also generated.

Overall, study shown that capture fisheries and aquaculture subsectors are moderately vulnerable due to the following drivers: medium sensitivity index due to declining fish catch and harvest, medium exposure index brought about by the intermediate occurrence of monsoons and tropical storms, medium adaptive capacity index from dependency on fishery industry, medium awareness and support systems to climate change.

Reconnaissance survey in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG)

A research expedition was conducted onboard M/V DA -BFAR to document and gather baseline data on the biological resources and oceanographic status of Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea from May 4 to June 5, 2021. Five islands namely Parola, Pagasa, Lawak, Patag, and Likas Island were surveyed for habitat assessment, oceanographic and biological profiling, including experimental fishing. A total of 56 species belonging to 19 families were documented. Family Lutjanidae (17.1%), Balistidae (13.1%), Lethrinidae (9.9 %), and family Serranidae (9.7%) comprised the majority of fishes observed. Among the top individual species are yellow margin triggerfish (Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus) with 8.6% share common bluestripe snapper (Lutjanus kasmira) with 5.5%, andGymnocranius sp. of family Lethrinidae with 5.3%.

For resource explorations, fishing surveys were conducted using bottom vertical longline, handline, spear gun, and set gillnet with a total catch of 77 kgs. Of these, 56 fish species from 19 families were recorded. The catches was dominated by the family Lutjanidae which contributed about 17% share followed by family Balistidae (13%) then family Lethrinidae (10 %), and family Serranidae (10%).

Habitat Underwater Assessment in Kalayaan Island Group, WPS

Among the species, Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus (Yellomargin triggerfish) of the family Balistidae was the most dominant with the highest contribution of about 9% followed by Lutjanus kasmira (Common bluestripe snapper) of family Lutjanidae with 6%, then by Gymnocranius sp. of family Lethrinidae with 5%. Signs of threats on coral reef areas such as physical damage, predation, and death of corals were initially observed in Patag, Pagasa and Likas islands. Threats to these marine ecosystems should be periodically monitored for crafting of appropriate management plan and measures.

Lawak Island Patag Island Likas Island

Parola Island Pagasa Island

FISHERIES POSTHARVEST RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Overall Goal Utilization, development, commercialization of quality and safe fish and fishery products through science-based postharvest and information.

Outcome Maximize the economic benefits derived from fishery resources for stakeholders and the industry.

Strategy Sustainable and Globally Competitive Fish and Fishery Products Ensuring the authenticity, traceability, quality, safety and sustainability

Seafood safety and quality is important to guarantee the consumers on the safety of the food they eat. Safety is very crucial in the food industry and maintaining the quality and integrity of the products is inevitable in preserving the consumer’s health.

Postharvest losses and waste from fish processing plants

Postharvest losses and estimation of wastes in fish processing plants were assessed in NCR, Region I (Pangasinan), Region III (Bulacan and Pampanga), Region V (Camarines Sur and Sorsogon), Region VII (Cebu Province), Region IX (Zamboanga and Dipolog City) and Region XII (General Santos City).

During processing of canned and bottled sardines, percent yield is estimated at 58.35% and 76.29% respectively. Majority of the canneries in Zamboanga City have fish meal and fish oil extraction facilities for utilization of byproducts consisting of heads, viscera and tails. Losses from undersized, damaged, and low quality sardines are being processed as fish meal. Canneries without fishmeal processing facilities deliver their wastes to tolling facilities. During peak season, fish meal processors can no longer accommodate excessive volume of raw materials due to limited manpower and production capacity. In Dipolog City, waste from sardines bottling is often utilized for fish meal production and as organic fertilizer. Some of the processors are constrained due to lack of capital and space to install waste treatment facilities. Thus, they are compelled to dump back their wastes to the sea or bury them in the ground.

In crab meat picking plants, percent recovery is calculated at 24%. Percentage of waste generated during crab meat picking is estimated at 76%. Major problem faced by the picking plants is the disposal of shells generated during processing as these emit strong foul odor if not properly packed and disposed. Due to unavailability of waste utilization facilities, waste is often dumped back to sea.

In milkfish deboning, the percent yield is estimated at

vendors in Malabon City or given to employees as incentives. Prawns/shrimps are graded based on quality

and size upon harvest due to high demand in both local and international markets, thus, minimal losses are recorded from processing plants.

Tuna is mainly marketed in fresh, chilled, frozen, or canned form. Losses incurred in tuna processing are known to be minimal as they practice pre-sorting and strict quality inspection during receipt of raw materials. Tuna processors apply quality inspection before sending it for processing. Tuna loin and canning industry generate a considerable amount of wastes, estimated at 49% to 61%. These are commonly sold to fish meal plants or local markets for value-addition.

Value addition and utilization of by-products from fish processing into other marketable products is an effective waste management strategy to mitigate the detrimental effects of dumping in the nearby environment and to generate additional revenue for the industry players.

Technology transfer and commercialization of bottled tuna in Occidental Mindoro

Many fish and fishery-based products should find more market access and this can be achieved through empowering processors in business operations and management from production to marketing. Support to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can be attained through transfer of knowledge on technologies, and market linkage.

The NFRDI cascaded the tuna bottling technology and skills to the Samahan ng Mangingisdang Kababaihan (SAMAKA) ng Sablayan. Through the project, SAMAKA was formed into cooperative and were trained on the tuna bottling process, food safety protocols, and business operations and management.

The finished product variants are in forms of tuna flakes, chunks and mixed variants were subjected to commercial sterility and nutritional analyses. The amount of calories on each bottled product ranged from 109 kcal to 135 kcal. Of the three product variants, tuna chunks registered the lowest while the mixed variant contains the highest calories. Based on the nutritional analyses, saturated fat of the products ranges from 3 to 5g while sodium ranges from 115 to 201 mg. The amount of sodium is less than the recommended level to be consumed by an adult which is less than 2g per day (FNRI, 2015). Furthermore, the total protein content of the bottled tuna ranges from 16 to 18 g. Sensory evaluation showed that the color of yellowfin tuna was light brown, no rancid odor and flavor were determined. It could be inferred that the produced bottled tuna flakes are of good quality.

TRAINING PROGRAM

Provision of training and development of human resources in the field of fisheries is among the mandates of NFRDI under Section 85 of RA 8550. To achieve this, NFRDI organizes training activities, other fora and provide On-the-Job Trainings and Internship opportunities for BFAR staff, fishfarmers, fisheries students and other stakeholders.

TRAININGS CONDUCTED

(a) Client-based Trainings

A total of eight (8) external trainings were conducted, in collaboration with the Villar Sipag Foundation, BFAR Central Office & Regional Field Offices and Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) – Aquaculture Department as follows:

TITLE OF TRAINING

Training of Trainers (ToT) on Fishing Boat and Gear Identification

Online Training on Tilapia Culture and Processing

Aqua-Negosyo at Turismo para sa mga Sundalo

Training on Tahong Culture and Processing Technologies

Marine Fish Hatchery and Milkfish Culture NFRDISEAFDEC/AQD Training

Crab Hatchery Online Training

Refresher Training-Workshop on Fish Identification for FIDSSD Implementers of the BFAR’s Price Monitoring Program

Pagsasanay Tungo sa Ligtas at Kalidad na Pagtitinapa para sa Mataas na Kita

April 8-12, 2021 14

BENEFICIARIES/SECTORS PRESENTED

NSAP Project Leaders and staff of BFAR Regions I, II, IVB, VI, VII, X, XII, and XIII

April 27-28, 2021 80 Fisherfolk of Villar Sipag Foundation

June 9 & 15, 2021 15

June 29-30 and July 5, 2021 63

October 18-29, 2021 16

December 13-17, 2021

November 23-25, 2021 9

November 24, 2021 23

TOTAL 220

Wounded Soldiers Agriculture Cooperative (WSAC)

LGU and Fisherfolk

Small-scale feed miller representatives, fisherfolk cooperatives and associations, LGUs, and stakeholders

NCR Price Monitorintg Program

Obando Fisherfolk Association NASAMAPA Agri Coop Paombong, Hagonoy Fish Farmer Producers Coop, Damayan ng mga Mangingisda sa Poblacion Sto. Tomas Pampanga

(b) On-the-Job/Internship Training Program

A total of three hundred (300) interns were capacitated under the Training for Fisheries Youth Program for development of future leaders, skilled industry, and government workers and, entrepreneurs.

On aquaculture technologies and laboratory-based trainings, twenty-two (22) interns received mentoring in two batches, i.e., from July to September: and, from October to December 2021.

On capture fisheries, 278 interns were engaged for three months (March to June 2021) under the Mentoring and Attracting Youth in Agribusiness (MAYA) Program in partnership with the DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research. The learned skills were eventually applied as field deployed enumerators for the conduct of boat and gear inventory under the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP).

DA MAYA Interns Orientation Program for the National Stock Assessment Project (NSAP) has officially started with its first batch of intern orientation on March 23, 2021, via Zoom Teleconference. 46 DA MAYA interns from BFAR Regions 1, 3, 4A, 10, and 12 attended the program

As part of the implementation of the Mentoring and Attracting Youth to Agribusiness (MAYA) program of the Department of AgricultureBureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) and to show the Institute's support to the Department's advocacies, DA-BAR and DA-NFRDI signed the Memorandum of Agreement on March 3, 2021 at the NFRDI Conference Room, Corporate 101 Bldg., Mo. Ignacia Ave., South Triangle, Quezon City.

The DA MAYA program aims to train a young cadre of highly-skilled, committed workers and future officials in the government, and innovative and highly-competitive agribusiness entrepreneurs. The implementation of the program consists of a six-month internship at DA national and regional offices which will serve as Handling Offices (HOs) for the program and will house and mentor the youth interns. NFRDI will serve as one of the HOs of the program where interns will be trained on administrative and technical skills especially on the nationwide boat and gear inventory of the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP) and various fisheries technologies especially in freshwater fish production through NFRDI's Freshwater Fisheries Research and Development Center in Butong, Taal, Batangas.

Present during the event were Usec. Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero, Undersecretary for AgriIndustrialization and Fisheries; Director Vivencio R. Mamaril, Mr. Raymond Patrick L. Cabrera, and Mr. Roberto S. Quing, Jr. for the DA-BAR; and Dr. Lilian C. Garcia, Mr. Francisco Torres, Jr., and Ms. Evalyn C. Jabaan for DA-NFRDI. Chiefs of the various Divisions of the Institute and the MAYA Program Management Team witnessed the event.

INFORMATION EDUCATION

DISSEMINATION AND

AWARENESS ACTIVITIES

Complementing the research and training functions of NFRDI is its information dissemination and awareness program which caters to its stakeholders in the academe, private and government sectors, and the general public. Under this are the following components: (1) publication of research abstracts and research papers through The Philippine Journal of Fisheries; (2) book/guide publications; (3) technical publications; (4) participation in events; (5) website maintenance; and, (6) maintenance of the library.

The Philippine Journal of Fisheries

Two (2) issues of TPJF were produced and published online in FY 2021. Volume 28 No. 1 was published on June 30 with eight (8) research articles Meanwhile, Volume 28 No. 2 was published on December 20, 2021, with one (1) short communication and eight (8) full papers.

As for the indexing, TPJF is now indexed under Scopus, the largest abstract and citation database of peer-reviewed literature: scientific journals, books and conference proceedings, Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI), National Book Development Board, Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries Abstract (ASFA), which is the premier reference in the field of fisheries, aquatic, and marine sciences. ASFA is being managed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. We are also indexed under Google Scholar.

The TPJF website is maintained and updated with Advanced Online Publication (AOP), search function, logos of indexing, and analytics. TPJF has 31 local experts and 3 foreign experts as members of the editorial board.

TPJF is also using Grammarly, which is a software that checks grammar, sentence structures, and other vocabulary enhancement, which helps in proofreading the articles before publishing them. Aside from that, it also offers a plagiarism checker.

A total of 1,889 was distributed to different university libraries, LGUs, BFAR Regions and public libraries.

Online Training-Workshop on the Preparation of Research Proposal and Scientific Writing conducted by BFAR-National Marine Fisheries Development Center last March 15-23, 2021.

Webinar and Training-workshop on Journal Management for Science Journal Editors conducted by Caraga State University last February 26, 2021.

TPJF Webinar: NSAP Presents on November 3, 2021. The profiles of our attendees are composed of students, professors, instructors, professionals and government employees with BFAR researchers and staff as one of our target clients.

Webinar-Workshop on the Journal Editorial Process conducted by Caraga State University on July 21, 2021.

NFRDI Webinars

SCIENTIFIC PAPERS PUBLISHED

(a) LOCAL

Aguila, A. C. M., Calderon, G. J. A., Santos, S. B., & Santos, M. (2021). Fisheries Vulnerability Assessment Tool (FishVool): Instructional Manual. Department of Agriculture. National Fisheries Research and Development Institute.

Arcila, D., Hughes, L. C., Meléndez-Vazquez, B., Baldwin, C. C., White, W. T., Carpenter, K. E., Williams, J. T., Santos, M. D., Pogonoski, J. J., Miya, M., Ortí, G., & Betancur-R, R. (2021). Testing the Utility of Alternative Metrics of Branch Support to Address the Ancient Evolutionary Radiation of Tunas, Stromateoids, and Allies (Teleostei: Pelagiaria). Systematic Biology, 70(6), 1123–1144. https:// doi.org/10.1093/sysbio/syab018

Bassig, R., Obinque, A., Nebres, V., Delos Santos, V., Ragaza, R., Ramos, C. A., Madrid, A. J., & Montojo, U. (2021). Assessment of Processing Methods for Sandfish (Holothuria scabra) in Pangasinan, Palawan, and Davao, Philippines. The Philippine Journal of Fisheries, 45–60. https://doi.org/10.31398/ tpjf/28.1.2020A00013

Bassig, R., Obinque, A., Nebres, V., Delos Santos, V., Salem, G., Cabigao, J., Ramos, C. A., Madrid, A. J., & Ragaza, R. (2021). Quality Assessment of Processed Sandfish (Holothuria scabra) Using Papaya Leaves to Remove its Hard Spiculy Layer. The Philippine Journal of Fisheries, 78–87. https://doi.org/10.31398/ tpjf/28.1.2020A0014

Flores, N. A., Rey, J. T., Williams, J. T., Carpenter, K., & Santos, M. (2021). First record of blacknape large-eye bream Gymnocranius satoi (Perciformes: Lethrinidae) in the Philippines. Philippine Journal of Systematic Biology, 15(1), 1–8. https:// doi.org/10.26757/pjsb2021a15007

Jumawan, C., Metillo, E., & Polistico, J. (2021). Assessment of Mud Crab Fishery in Panguil Bay. The Philippine Journal of Fisheries, 18–33. https://doi.org/10.31398/ tpjf/28.1.2020A0002

Macusi, E. D., Geronimo, R. C., & Santos, M. D. (2021). Vulnerability drivers for small pelagics and milkfish aquaculture value chain determined through online participatory approach. Marine Policy, 133, 104710. https://doi.org/10.1016/ j.marpol.2021.104710

Marini, M., Pedrosa-Gerasmio, I. R., Santos, M. D., Shibuno, T., Daryani, A., Romana-Eguia, M. R. R., & Wibowo, A. (2021). Genetic diversity, population structure and demographic history of the tropical eel Anguilla bicolor pacifica in Southeast Asia using mitochondrial DNA control region sequences. Global Ecology and Conservation, 26, e01493. https:// doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2021.e01493

Muyot, F., Magistrado, M., Muyot, M., & Mutia, M. T. (2021). Growth Performance of the Mangrove Red Snapper (Lutjanus argentimaculatus) in Freshwater Pond Comparing Two Stocking Densities and Three Feed Types. The Philippine Journal of Fisheries, 1–17. https:// doi.org/10.31398/tpjf/28.1.2020A0007

Muyot, M., Balunan, R., & Mutia, M. T. (2021). Supply and Value Chain Analysis of Freshwater Sardine, Sardinella tawilis (Herre 1927), in Taal Lake, Batangas, Philippines. The Philippine Journal of Fisheries, 61–77. https:// doi.org/10.31398/tpjf/28.1.2020A0016

Nanola, C. L. Jr., Paradela, M. A. C., Songco, A., Pagliawan, M. R. C., Alarcon, R. C., & Santos, M. (2021). First Report on the Density and Size Frequency Distribution of the Napoleon Wrasse, Cheilinus undulatus in the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Philippines. Philippine Journal of Science, 150(1), 209–221.

Quiazon, K. M. A., Santos, M. D., Blatchley, D. D., Aguila, R. D., & Tomoyoshi, Y. (2021). Molecular and Morphological Identifications of Anisakis Dujardin, 1845 (Nematoda: Anisakidae) from a Rare Deraniyagala’s Beaked Whale (Mesoplodon hotaula Deraniyagala, 1963) and Blainville’s Beaked Whale (Mesoplodon densirostris Blainville, 1817) Stranded Off Southern Philippines. Philippine Journal of Science, 150(3), 823–835.

Tanyag, B., Perelonia, K. B., Cambia, F., & Montojo, U. (2021). Screening of Ciguatoxins in the Philippines by Animal Assay: Symptoms, Levels, and Distribution in Fish Tissue. The Philippine Journal of Fisheries, 88–96. https:// doi.org/10.31398/tpjf/28.1.2020A0015

Stranded Off Southern Philippines. Philippine Journal of Science, 150(3), 823–835.

(b)INTERNATIONAL

Flores, N. A., Rey, J. T., Williams, J. T., Carpenter, K., & Santos, M. (2021). First record of blacknape large -eye bream Gymnocranius satoi (Perciformes: Lethrinidae) in the Philippines. Philippine Journal of Systematic Biology, 15(1), 1–8. https:// doi.org/10.26757/pjsb2021a15007

The National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) conducted its 9th Fisheries Scientific Conference (FishSciCon) on September 1-8, 2021, via virtual platform to promote discussions on different advances in fisheries studies.

With the theme, “Pangisdaan ay Paunlarin, Pananaliksik ay Gamitin upang Masaganang Ani at Mataas Na Kita ay Makamit Natin,” this year’s SciCon aims to provide a venue for national and international researchers, students, and stakeholders in the field of fisheries to present relevant research and advancements towards attaining sustainable fisheries and food security. The conference revolved around four sector sessions: Aquaculture, Capture Fisheries, Fisheries Postharvest, and Cross-cutting Themes.

The week-long event kicked off with an opening ceremony featuring messages from the Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Dar, DA Undersecretary, and NFRDI Governing Board Chair USec. Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero, NFRDI Executive Director Dr. Lilian Garcia, CESO V, BFAR National Director Commodore Eduardo Gongona PCG (Ret) and key players of the conference. In his keynote address, Sec. Dar emphasized the importance of the SciCon to improve fisheries management initiatives in the Philippines.

Eight books were also launched during the opening program: Freshwater Eel: Culture Industry Practices in the Philippines and seven Fish Guide books, which had been published as an offshoot of the National Stock Assessment Program, the joint project of BFAR Region 5 and NFRDI. The book on eel is the first to document various industry practices, including glass eel collection, nursery and growout culture, and marketing. On the other hand, the seven guide books give us a glimpse of all the finfish resources that the waters in Region 5 have to offer.

Meanwhile, 78 poster abstracts were accepted for this year for the Aquaculture category, 25 for the Capture Fisheries, 13 for the Fisheries Postharvest, and 17 for the Cross cutting themes.

The conference’s plenary and sector sessions featured national and international experts in marine science and fisheries. For Aquaculture plenary session, Dr. Anicia Hurtado of Integrated Services for the Development of Aquaculture and Fisheries (ISDA Inc.) talked about “Safeguarding the Future of the Seaweed Industry of the Philippines,” where she highlighted the accomplishments of the Global Seaweed Star Philippines and practical solutions to the threat in seaweeds. During the Capture Fisheries plenary session, Dr. Elizabeth Mendenhall of the University of Rhode Island, USA, discussed the impacts of marine plastic pollution in the environment. For the postharvest session, Ms. Yaa Tiwaa Amoah of Postharvest Unit Fisheries Commission Ghana presented the “Evolution of Fish Smoking Ovens: The Ghana Story.” Ms. Amoah examined the story of fisherfolks and women’s participation in the fisheries industry in Ghana and the technology innovation that can help the industry prevent postharvest losses to generate more income for the sector. Lastly, for the cross-cutting themes, Dr. Rhoda Mae Simora of the University of the Philippines Visayas explained the study entitled, “CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing as a Game Changer in Fish Biotechnology.” She talked about CRISPR/Cas9, its origin, mechanisms, promising applications, and its advantages to the fisheries sector.

Moreover, one of the highlights of this year’s SciCon was the Spotlight Presentation. Spotlight Presentation Competition is an oral presentation of thesis or dissertation of recipients of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Fisheries Scholarship Program: Industry Leaders Grant (IL) and Fisherfolk Children Educational Grant (FCEG). Having been an integral part of SciCon since 2018, this competition offers an opportunity for young scientists to present their work to the scientific community and provide an interactive venue for academic exchange. Out of 29 abstract entries received from 12 universities across the country, the committee selected the top five finalists to present at the conference. Ms. Ivy Jinky Briones from Visayas State University-Tolosa won 1st place for her study, “Evaluation of Antibacterial Property of Chitosan and Modified Chitosan from Cuttlefish (Sepiaspp.) Bone Against Vibrio spp.” Ms. Eraiza Kim Sese of Western Philippines University received second place, while Mr. Whelver Surnido of the University of the Philippines Visayas gained third.

Video-on-demand presentations of the speakers and spotlight presenters are available for access on NFRDI’s website: nfrdi.da.gov.ph/scicon.

As part of its mission to be a leader in fisheries research and development in the Philippines, the NFRDI continues to develop programs that will further engage its stakeholders geared towards improving and protecting the country’s fisheries and aquatic resources.

FISEARCH NEWSLETTERS

Coined from Fisheries Research, FiSearch is the active quarterly online publication of NFRDI's official newsletter.

These digital copies highlight the milestone achievements of the NFRDI in the conduct of its R&D projects aimed to increase productivity of the agri-fishery sector of the country.

You may download the latest https://nfrdi.da.gov.ph/fisearch-

NFRDI SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS

Digital social platforms are being utilized to promote awareness and to disseminate information to the public. Important information about NFRDI, news articles, video presentations and other learning materials are uploaded in the website for stakeholders to read and view. The NFRDI FB Page, is another platform similar to website, with immediacy of information as the cutting edge. It include infographics of important events with brief captions and to further connect and share NFRDI’s accomplishments. It also serves as a platform for collecting immediate feedback from stakeholders and viewers.

SERVICES AND EXTENSION

Another way by which NFRDI maintains its connection with the different sectors/stakeholders is through improved services and extension activities. NFRDI works in close collaboration with different government agencies and experts towards the development of the fisheries sector.

LABORATORY SERVICES

Being the research arm of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute laboratory aims to establish scientific data that would address the quality and safety of fish and fishery resources including the production area. The validity of results is very vital in setting up of policies and guidelines as well as risk assessment and formulation of national standards for fisheries industry. These can be achieved if the laboratory test methods are accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2017.

The pre-requisite for a laboratory to be an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited, is to have a documented quality policy and procedures and technically competent staffs. The laboratory should be able to conform requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and seek accreditation by Philippine Accreditation Bureau -Department of Trade and Industry (PAB-DTI).

A total of 398 laboratory analysis were performed by the Integrated research Laboratory (IRL) to support the in-house research studies of the institute and technical support to various BFAR Region Offices.

LABORATORY YEAR REVIEW

Activity 1 – Development and Implementation of Quality Policy Manual according to ISO 17025:2017 for the Laboratory

Activity 2 - Competency of Laboratory Staff (Management and Technical)

Activity 3 - Maintenance and operation of the laboratory equipment according to ISO/IEC 17025:2017

Activity 4 - Compliance to the requirements of certifying and regulatory bodies with regards to operation of the laboratory

Activity 5 – Laboratory support to R and D activities of NFRDI

HUMAN RESOURCES

Sound management of human and capital assets is basic to the delivery of quality service. Opportunities are provided to motivate employees and increase their productivity for the achievement of organizational goals. Sound facilities are important tools to carry out research and deliver timely output.

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

To upgrade knowledge and competence of its regular and contractual personnel, human resources development opportunities are pursued through attendance in various trainings, seminars, and workshops.

Webinar on COVID-19 Updates, Boosting the Immune System & Nutrition

Webinar on Employee Wellness July 16, 2021 16

Webinar on Republic Act 10028 or the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009 August 6, 2021 8

Online Leadership Workshop on "Driving Innovation Through Agile Leadership"

17-18, 24-25, 2021

For F.Y. 2021, a total of twenty seven (27) participants, who were mostly newly-hired, participated in the conduct of the Virtual Gender Sensitivity Training last May 18, 19, and 21, 2021.

To provide knowledge and advocate support to solo parent employees, a webinar on RA 8972 or the Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2000 was conducted last June 30, 2021. A total of thirty five (35) employees attended the said webinar.

During the Civil Servants’ Health Awareness Month, a series of webinars was facilitated on the whole month of July such as: Webinar on Managing Stress and Promoting Wellbeing, COVID-19 Updates, Boosting the Immune System & Nutrition, and a webinar on Employee Wellness. A total of 126 attendees participated in the said trainings. Furthermore, to further promote breastfeeding, a webinar on Republic Act 10028 or the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009 was conducted with a total of twenty four (24) participants.

To further hone the leadership skills of the employees in the supervisory level, 24 chiefs of divisions, centers, and sections attended the four-day workshop entitled Driving Innovation through Agile Leadership of the Center for Empowerment Seminars and Workshops, Inc. (CESWI).

Lastly, a reorientation on Strategic Performance Management System was organized for the employees and was attended by twenty seven (27) staff.

Virtual Gender Sensitivity Training Batch 1

Webinar on RA 8972 or Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2000

Webinar on Managing Stress and Promoting Wellbeing

Webinar on Covid-19 Updates, Boosting the Immune System & Nutrition

Webinar on Republic Act 10028 or the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009

Webinar on Employee Wellness

Reorientation on Strategic Performance Management System

STAFF RECOGNITION

One of the Outstanding Posters during the Global Conference on Aquaculture Millennium+20 (GCA +20) with her paper "Efficacy of tilapia oral vaccine coupled with nanocomposite biomaterial as carrier for vaccine delivery”

Assessment of Philippines' Seafood Products for Export using DNA Barcoding - 3rd place, 48th Philippine Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (PSBMB) Annual Convention Poster Presentations

The Commission on Audit (COA) gave the Department of Agriculture-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute's (DA-NFRDI) an "Unmodified Opinion" report for its FY 2021 financial statements. An "Unmodified/Unqualified Opinion" is the highest possible audit grade for government offices. For two years straight, the COA has given NFRDI "Unqualified/Unmodified” rating in all its financial statements.

Newly-Conferred Career Scientists

CSC commendation from zero public complaint received from Contact Center ng Bayan

Dr. Casiano H. Choresca Jr. Scientist I

Dr. Ma. Theresa M. Mutia Scientist I

Brackishwater Fisheries Research and Development Center (BFRDC) at Lala, Lanao del Norte

Marine Fisheries Research and Development Center (MFRDC) at Guiuan, Eastern Samar

FY 2021 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

TITLE

AQUACULTURE (39)

Aquafarming and Engineering (22)

1 Growth and survival of tiger lobster (Panurilus ornatus) in nurserymarine floating cage at different stocking densities

Proponent: Jennifer A. Poniente

Duration: April 2020-December 2022

Location: Panabo, Davao del Norte

2 Growth and survival of milkfish from fry to fingerling at different stocking densities

Proponent: Jennifer A. Poniente

Duration: April 2020-December 2022

Location: Panabo, Davao del Norte

3 Slipper oyster (Crassostreairedalei) fattening and quality improvements in ponds using Skeletonema spp. Diatoms

Proponent: Wesly Rosario, Raquel Ferrer and Marites B. Chiuco

Duration: March 2020-December 2022

Location: Bonuan-Binloc, Dagupan City, Pangasinan

4 Technology promotion of maliputo (Caranx ignobilis) grow-out culture

Proponent: Maria Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D.

Duration: January 2020-December 2022

Location: Butong, Taal, Batangas

5 Technology promotion of ornamental fish

Proponent: Maria Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D.

Duration: January 2021-December 2022

Location: Butong, Taal, Batangas

6 Integrated multi-tropic aquaculture (IMTA) techniques using milkfish, mudcrab, seaweeds and molluscs

Proponent: Celestina Q. Jumawan

Duration: January 2021-December 2021

Location: Pacita, Lala, Lanao del Norte

EXPECTED OUTPUT

Nursery rearing techniques for tiger lobster in marine cages

COLLABORATING PARTNER

BFAR National Mariculture Center (BFAR-NMC)

Modified techniques for nursery rearing of milkfish in marine cages

Technology on the production of quality and safe oyster

BFAR-NMC

Package of Technology (POT) for grow-out of maliputo

BFAR-National Fisheries Development Center (NFDC)

Package of technology on ornamental fishes

BFAR III, IV-A; Private hatcheries and private fish farms in Regions III & IVA

Increased farm efficiency and bio-remediation in ponds

BFAR IV-A

Mindanao State University Naawan Campus

Aquafarming and Engineering

7 Sea-based culture of laboratory grown Kappaphycus alvarezii propagules

Proponent: Maria Salvacion R. Ferrer & Ida Capacio

Duration: January 2020-December 2022

Location: Sorsogon

Package of Technology (POT) for seaweed culture using laboratory grown propagules

BFAR National Seaweed Technology and Development Center (NSTDC)

BFAR RFO V; PFO Sorsogon, LGUs

Technology verification on the land and sea -based culture of Sargassum

Technology verified protocol for Sargassum culture

Proponent: Maria Salvacion R. Ferrer

Duration: June 2020-December 2022

Location: Bulusan/Dancalan/Sorsogon

Technology promotion on the production of bigger-sized tilapia and milkfish fingerlings for cage culture

Package of Technology (POT) for tilapia and milkfish nursery rearing

LGU Bulusan, Sorsogon

University of San Carlos

Proponent: Frederick B. Muyot

Duration: June 2020-December 2021

Location: CALABARZON

Technology promotion on culture of tilapia and milkfish using extruded floating feeds

Proponent: Frederick B. Muyot

Duration: June 2020-December 2021

Location: CALABARZON

Technology promotion on the seed production of common carp for stock enhancement and aquaculture

Proponent: Frederick B. Muyot

Duration: June 2020-December 2021

Location: CALABARZON

12 Technology promotion on the milkfish fingerling production in ponds and cages

Proponent: Nonita S. Cabacaba

Duration: April 2020-December 2021

Location: Guiuan, Eastern Samar

13 Outscaling of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) hatchery production in region 1

Proponent: Marites B. Chiuco & Mary Joy Agustin

Duration: January 2021-December 2022

Location: Dagupan City & San Fabian, Pangasinan

Promotion of floating feeds for tilapia and milkfish in cages

BFAR IV-A; Private fish farmers

Package of Technology (POT) on common carp for stock enhancement (Restorative aquaculture)

Package of Technology (POT) for milkfish nursery rearing

IV-A

Package of Technology (POT) for African catfish backyard hatchery

BFAR RFOs; LGUs

BFAR Guiuan Marine Fisheries Development Center (GMFDC)

LGUs of Pangasinan

Aquafarming and Engineering

Outscaling of protocols on saline tilapia (O. niloticus x. O. mossambicus) through backyard satellite hatcheries as livelihood support to village level farmers in pangasinan

Proponent: Marites B. Chiuco & Nerafe Muyalde

Duration: January 2021-December 2022

Location: Pangasinan

Improved production of common carp (Cyprinuscarpio) through outscaling of growout protocols in village level farms in the province of Laguna and Rizal

Proponent: Maria Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D.

Duration: January 2021-December 2022

Location: Laguna and Rizal

Stock enhancement of blue swimming crab (Portunuspelagicus) in Guiuan Eastern Samar, Philippines

Proponent: Nonita S. Cabacaba

Duration: July 2020-June 2021

Location: Guiuan, Eastern Samar

17 Enhanced productivity and resiliency through improved milkfish (Chanoschanos) nursery protocols in Central Luzon

Proponent: Maria Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D.

Duration: September 2021-August 2022

Location: Quezon Province

18 Enhanced productivity and resiliency through improved milkfish nursery protocols in Cagayan Valley Region

Proponent: Joseph Christopher C. Rayos, Ph.D & Cordelia Nipales

Duration: September 2021-August 2022

Location: Cagayan Valley

Package of Technology (POT) for tilapia backyard hatchery

BFAR RFO I

DA Bureau of Agricultural Research (Funding Institution)

Package of technology on common carp grow-out culture

BFAR RFO; LGU Laguna and Rizal

DA Bureau of Agricultural Research (Funding Institution)

Stock enhancement protocol for blue swimming crab

BFAR RFO VIII

DA Bureau of Agricultural Research (Funding Institution)

Promotion of Package of Technology (POT) for milkfish nursery

BFAR III and LGU of Zambales

DA Bureau of Agricultural Research (Funding Institution)

Promotion of Package of Technology (POT) for milkfish nursery

BFAR-NFDC

DA Bureau of Agricultural Research (Funding Institution)

Aquafarming and Engineering (22)

19 Establishment and operation of a village level pilot hatchery for african catfish (Clariasgariepinus)

Proponent: Maria Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D. / Maria Jodecel Danting

Duration: September 2021-August 2022

Location: Nueva Ecija

Automation system for modified intensive fry production of Oreochromis niloticus

Proponent: Maria Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D. & Maria Joedecel Dantig

Duration: September 2021-August 2022

Location: Nueva Ecija

21 Strengthening food fish productivity and resiliency through upscaling of milkfish hatchery production in northern luzon

Proponent: Marites B. Chiuco

Duration: January 2021-December 2022

Location: La Union & Pangasinan

22 Development and operationalization of the business incubation program on various fisheries and aquaculture technologies

Proponent: Joseph Christopher C. Rayos , Ph.D.

Duration: September 2021-September 2022

Location: Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Bohol, Leyte, Abra, Pangasinan, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Batangas, Laguna, Quezon Province, Quezon City, Occidental Mindoro, Pampanga, Bulacan, Bataan

Aquatic Animal Health (3)

23 Development and application of molecular based diagnostic technique as a platform in advanced surveillance and detection of emerging viral disease syndrome/ iridovirus/ranavirus in milkfish (Chanos chanos)

Proponent: Casiano H. Choresca Jr., Ph.D

Duration: January - December 2022

Location: Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija

Package of Technology (POT) for African catfish backyard hatchery

Increased tilapia fry production using automated system

BFAR NIFTC, BFAR RFO III, LGUs

DA Bureau of Agricultural Research (Funding Institution)

Improved hatchery and nursery protocols for the seed production of milkfish

Central Luzon State University

BFAR-NFDC; LGUs of Pangasinan (Dagupan City, Lingayen, Binmaley) and La Union (Aringay, and Agoo)

Technology business incubation package for fisheries and aquaculture technologies

BFAR RFO III and LGUs of Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga and Bulacan

BFAR RFO IV-A and LGUs of Laguna, Batangas and Quezon, BFAR RFO IV-B and LGUs of Occidental Mindoro

BFAR RFO VII and LGUs of Bohol

BFAR RFO VIII and LGUs of Eastern Samar, Samar and Leyte

BFAR RFO IX and LGU of Zamboanga del Sur

BFAR RFO X and LGUs of Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte

BFRA RFO CAR and LGU of Abra

Diagnostic kit for detection of viral diseases in milkfish

BFAR National Fisheries Laboratory Division (NFLD); Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCOF)

Aquatic Animal Health

24 Establishment of an advanced diagnostic detection method for tilapia lake virus (TiLV) and other emerging aquatic viruses in the Philippines: surveillance, profiling and molecular disease diagnostics

Proponent: Casiano H. Choresca Jr. Ph.D.

Duration: July 2018 - December 2022

Location: Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija

Molecular identification of bacterial tilapia diseases and other emerging bacterial pathogens in freshwater fishes

Proponent: Casiano H. Choresca Jr., Ph.D

Duration: July 2019 - December 2022

Location: Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija

Fish Nutrition and Feed Development (2)

26 Larval Rearing of Naturally Bred Biya and Ayungin with Focus on Diet and Nutrition

Proponent: Rene Geraldo G. Ledesma

Duration: April 2020-December 2022

Location: Tanay, Rizal

27 Aquafeed Research, Development and Extension Project

Proponent: Maria Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D. & Edward Roger Mamauag

Duration: July 2018-December 2022

Location: Region I, Region IV-A, Region VI, Region VIII

Diagnostic kit for quick and accurate detection of TiLV

Baseline profile of bacterial diseases in tilapia and other freshwater fishes

Diagnostic kit for bacterial pathogen

BFAR – NFLD ISCOF

BFAR NFFTC

Optimum nutrition and diets for ayungin and biya

BFAR- National Inland Fisheries Technology Center (NIFTC)

Low cost feed technology for milkfish and tilapia

SEAFDEC-AQD; BFAR RFOs I, III, IV-A and VI

Genetics and Breeding (12)

28 Siganid culture (Siganus guttatus and S. vermiculatus) and hybridization for quality and increased seed production

Proponent: Wesly R. Rosario, Marites B. Chiuco, & Cordelia Nipales

Duration: March 2020-December 2022

Location: Bonuan-Binloc, Dagupan City, Pangasinan

29 Refinement of induced breeding and larval rearing of Mudfish Channastriata

Proponent: Casiano H. Choresca, Jr. , Ph.D.

Duration: January 2020- December 2022

Location: Science City of Munoz, Nieva Ecija

30 Development of induced breeding and larval rearing of climbing perch Anabas testudineus

Proponent: Casiano H. Choresca Jr. Ph.D & Maria Theresa T. Oclos

Duration: January 2020-December 2022

Location: Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija

31 Morphological and molecular identification, culture and breeding evaluation of jungle perch (Aguning) Kuhliarupestris in captivity

Proponent: Casiano H. Choresca Jr. Ph.D & Maria Theresa T. Oclos

Duration: March 2020-March 2022

Location: Region II, Region III, Region IV-A

32 Genotyping of Oreochromis niloticus species and other improved strains of tilapia at BFAR-NFFTC towards marker assisted selection in breeding and production

Proponent: Ma. Theresa T. Oclos

Duration: June 2020-December 2022

Location: Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija

Genetic quality improvement of siganid for hatchery and commercial production

Improved protocol for breeding & culture of

BFAR- NFDC

Increased spawning performance and fry survival for commercial seed production of mudfish

BFAR-NFFTC

Mindanao State University –Naawan Campus

BFAR -RFO VI

IInduced breeding & larval rearing protocol for commercial seed production of climbing perch

Mindanao State University –Naawan Campus

Selective breeding and culture technologies for jungle perch

BFAR-NFFTC

Selective breeding and improvement of tilapia strains for production

BFAR-NFFTC

Genetics and Breeding

33 Breeding and stock enhancement high value indigenous species (maliputo, biya and ayungin)

Proponent: Ma. Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D

Duration: January 2020-December 2022

Location: Butong, Taal, Batangas

Resource assessment and technology verification on the hatchery and nursery rearing of mangrove crabs in the Philippines

Proponent: Nonita S. Cabacaba

Duration: April 2020 December 2021

Location: Region II, Region IV-A, Region V, Region VIII, Region X

35 Artificial propagation of Sardinellatawilis

Proponent: Ma. Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D

Duration: January 2020-December 2021

Location: Barangay Pansipit, Agoncillo, Batangas

36 Biotechnological approaches in the production of mudfish (Channastriata) using induced spawning hormones

Proponent: Casiano H. Choresca Jr., Ph.D

Duration: October 2020-October 2021

Location: Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija

37 Adoption of modified intensive fry production and nursery rearing of Oreochromis niloticus for village level production in the Northern Luzon

Proponent: Ma. Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D & Ma. Jodecel C. Danting

Duration: June 2020 June 2021

Location: CAR=Bangbangcag, Bucay, Abra; San Rafael East, Manabo, Abra; RO1=Madiladig, Laoag, Ilocos Norte; Sived, Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur; RO2=Pata, Tuao, Cagayan; Naruangan, Tuao, Cagayan; RO3=Cupang, Balanga, Bataan; PSAU, Magalang, Pampanga

Seed production technology for indigenous species (maliputo, biya and ayungin) for stock enhancement

BFAR-NIFTC; BFAR III, IV-A, V and CAR

State of mangrove crab resources in Region II, IV-A, V, VII and X

Protocols for artificial propagation of S.tawilis

Protocols for induced breeding of mudfish

BFAR RFO II, IV-A, V, VII VIII and X

Package of technology for tilapia fry production and nursery

BFAR NFFTC

MSU - Naawan

BFAR RFO CAR, I, II, III

Genetics and Breeding

Enhanced fingerling production through outscaling of improved milkfish (Chanos chanos) hatcheryprotocol in Quezon Province

Proponent: Frederick B. Muyot

Duration: June 2020 - June 2021

Location: Quezon Province

Enhanced fingerling production through outscaling of hatchery and nursery tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) protocols in village-level farms in Laguna and Batangas

Proponent: Frederick B. Muyot

Duration: June 2020-December 2021

Location: Laguna and Batangas

CAPTURE FISHERIES (10)

Coastal Fisheries (6)

40 National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP)

Proponent: Francisco SB. Torres, Jr.

Duration: January 1997-continuing

Location: Region I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII, CARAGA, CAR

41 Biogeography of Sargassum spp. In selected coastal areas in the philippines for sustainable fishery resource and habitat management

Proponent: Ma. Salvacion R. Ferrer

Duration: January 2017-December 2022

Location: Regions IV-A, VIII, IX, X

42 Establishment and operation of a regional system of fisheries refugia in the south China Sea and Gulf of Thailand

Proponent: Valeriano M. Borja

Duration: January 2017-December 2022

Location: Bolinao, Pangasinan, Coron, Palawan, Masinloc, Zambales

Package of technology on milkfish hatchery

Package of technology on tilapia hatchery and nursery

BFAR RFO IV-A

DA-BAR (Funding Institution)

Status of fishery resources in the Philippines

BFAR RFO IV-A

DA-BAR (Funding Institution)

BFAR Regional Fishery Offices I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII, CARAGA, CAR

Land satellite maps for Sargassum resources

BFAR CO, RFO I, IV-A, IV-B, VII, VIII, IX, X, LGUs, POs

Establishment of three (3) fisheries refugia

BFAR CO; DENR; UNEPGEF; SEAFDEC-Thailand

Coastal Fisheries

43 Fish Resource assessment of Manila Bay

Proponent: Grace D.V. Lopez

Duration: January 2012-continuing

Location: 8 Established Fish Landing Sites in Manila Bay (Cavite 4; Bataan 2; Metro Manila 2)

44 Fisheries oceanographic study in Manila Bay

Proponent: Elsa F. Furio

Duration: January 2012-continuing

Location: The entire Manila Bay (with preestablished 16 sampling stations)

45 Nationwide vulnerability and suitability assessment and mapping of capture fisheries and aquaculture sectors

Proponent: Mudjekeewis D. Santos, Ph.D

Duration: January 2019-December 2022

Location: Nationwide

Inland Fisheries (3)

46 Carrying capacity for aquaculture production in lake taal

Proponent: Myleen M. Magistrado

Duration: March 2021-December 2021

Location: Batangas

47 Stock assessment of Lake Taal and Pansipit river

Proponent: Ma. Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D

Duration: January 2015-December 2023

Location: Taal, Batangas

48 Genetic diversity, population structure and demographic history of ludong, Cestraeus spp. in Aparri and Isabela, Philippines

Proponent: Mudjekeewis D. Santos, Ph.D

Duration: January 2019-June 2021

Location: Region II, Region I, CAR

Status of fishery resources

BFAR RFO III, IV-A and NCR, LGUs

Status of Ecological parameters

BFAR RFO III and IV-A and LGUs

Vulnerability and suitability maps for capture fisheries and aquaculture

BFAR RFOs

Carrying capacity estimation of Taal Lake of aquaculture from nutrient deposition

BFAR IV-A, DENR-PAMO, UPLB

Status of fishery resources of Taal Lake and Pansipit River

DNA profile of Ludong

BFAR RFO I, II and CAR

EXPECTED OUTPUT

Distant Waters Fisheries (1)

49 Sustainable management of highly migratory fish stocks in the west pacific and east asian seas/or western pacific east asia improved tuna monitoring

Proponent: Suzette C. Barcoma & Elaine G. GarvillesDuration: January 2010December 2022

Location: Regions 1,11,111,IV-A,IV-B,V, VI VII, VIII, IX, X, XII, CARAGA, ARMM

FISHERIES POSTHARVEST (4)

Fish Handling and Processing (1)

50 Assessment of fisheries post-harvest losses in the Philippines

Proponent: Ulysses M. Montojo, Ph.D

Duration: January 2017-December 2025

Location: Navotas City, Pangasinan, Bataan, Bulacan, Quezon Province, Palawan, Iloilo, Capiz, Cebu, Samar, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, and South Cotabato

Geo-spatial mapping of tuna resources

BFAR CO and RFOs;

Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC);

Pacific Community (SPC)

Information status on postharvest losses

 onboard commercial vessels  processing plants selected

Fish landing areas

Product Commercialization and Marketing (1)

51 Technology verification of tuna bottling process in Occidental Mindoro

Proponent: Rosa A. Bassig & Bernajocele Jalyn S. Baldoza

Duration: January 2021 - December 2022

Location: Poblacion, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro

Technology on tuna bottling of yellowfin tuna

BFAR RFO I, III, IV-A, IV-B, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, XII, & NCR

BFAR IV-B

LGU of Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro

Seafood Safety and Quality (2)

52 Assessment of traditional methods of smoking of fishes in the Philippines sub study 1: assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in smoked fishes

Proponent: Flordeliza D. Cambia

Duration: January 2021 - December 2022

Location: NCR (Malabon, Navotas), Cavite, Bataan, Pangasinan, General Santos City, and Sorsogon

Determined levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon in smoked products

Information support to food safety standards on smoked products

BFAR-FIU, BFAR RFO I, III, IV-A, V and NCR

Seafood Safety and Quality

53 Levels and risk assessment of hazardous chemicals, pathogenic bacteria and other pollution indicators in Manila Bay aquaculture farms

Proponent: Ulysses M. Montojo, Ph.D

Duration: January 202 - December 2021

Location: Bulacan, Bataan, Pampanga, and Cavite (Manila Bay parameter)

Information on hazardous chemicals, pathogenic bacteria, and other pollutants in Manila Bay aquaculture farms

Support to Research and Development (5)

54 Operationalization of NFRDI-integrated research laboratory towards ISO 17025:2017 accreditation

Proponent: Flordeliza D. Cambia

Duration: January 2016 - Continuing

Location: NFRDI, Central Office, Quezon City

55 FISHCODES: DNA barcoding services in support of fisheries management and aquaculture production for food security

Proponent: Mudjekeewis D. Santos, Ph.D

Duration: January 2014 - Continuing

Location: NFRDI, Central Office, Quezon City

56 ISDApp Project

Proponent: Mudjekeewis D. Santos, Ph.D

Duration: January 2021 - December 2021

Location: Sariaya, Quezon Province, Dingalan, Aurora

57 Development and strengthening the capacity of the fisheries biotechnology center in the establishment of priority fisheries biotechnology R&D programs

Proponent: Casiano H. Choresca Jr., Ph.D

Duration: October 2019 - December 2022

Location: Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija

58 Development of FFRDC as AquaBiz School (ABS)

Proponent: Ma. Theresa M. Mutia, Ph.D

Duration: October 2021 - March 2022

Location: Butong Taal, Batangas

-house laboratory services

BFAR Regions III and IVA

DNA-based barcoding services for identification of fish and fishery products

Digital weather application for fisherfolk Globe, iNON IT Solutions

BFAR III and IV-A

Capacity building of human resources and networking in fisheries biotechnology

NFFTC DA-BIOTECH

Aquaculture business school for technology transfer & enetrprise development

DA Bureau of Agricultural Research (Funding Institution)