ISUFST faculty elects new FedFA officers for 2025–2027

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The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) elected and inducted a new set of officers for the 2025–2027 Federated Faculty Association (FedFA) on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, at Jade Hall, Grand Xing Imperial Hotel in Iloilo City.

The event gathered faculty members from ISUFST’s five campuses, signaling a new chapter in shared leadership and faculty development.

Dr. Edmer Bernardo of the Main Campus–Tiwi Site emerged as the new FedFA president during the official elections presided over by outgoing president Dr. Noli Gerona.

As FedFA president, Bernardo will also serve as the faculty’s official representative to the ISUFST Board of Regents, the university’s highest governing body.

Voting was conducted via secret ballot for the presidency and viva voce for the remaining positions.

Joining Bernardo in the new executive council are Dr. Emelyn Ligasan (vice president, San Enrique), Dr. Herman Lagon (secretary, Tiwi), Dr. Mars Salmeo (treasurer, San Enrique), Dr. Boots Arroz (auditor, Dumangas), Prof. Ernie Pedregosa (business manager, Dumangas), and Prof. Zaldy Biñas (public information officer, Poblacion).

Completing the Board of Directors are:

Dr. Jescel Bito-onon (Tiwi)
Dr. Christine Deocampo (Poblacion)
Dr. Ma. Cecile Mondero (Poblacion)
Dr. Rene Estomo (Dingle)
Dr. Corazon Fernandez (Dingle)
Instructor Teddy Fuentivilla (Dingle)
Dr. Ma. Angela Libo-on (Dumangas)
Instructor Junna Mari Pacardo (San Enrique)

In his message to the faculty, Dr. Bernardo reflected on his ISUFST journey and emphasized a leadership style grounded in experience and empathy.

“I started from the bottom, and I know how it feels,” he said.

“My promise is simple — our plans won’t stay as proposals. We will make sure they happen, with dignity, fairness, and purpose.”

The induction was officiated by University Legal Officer Atty. Joey Mondero, after which the outgoing officers, led by Dr. Gerona, formally handed over key organizational documents, including the constitution and by-laws, registration materials, bank records, and previous activity files.

“This isn’t just a handover of folders — it’s a handoff of vision, values, and trust,” said Gerona.

University President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. reminded the faculty of the deeper meaning behind leadership roles.

“Relationships outlast positions. Use your time, energy, and influence to build what truly matters — your family, your health, your students, and your personal growth,” he said before 473 of the 522 faculty and staff present at the assembly.

With more than 8,000 students across five campuses, ISUFST continues to advance its mission of academic excellence, research innovation, and inclusive governance.

The FedFA plays a vital role in aligning faculty programs with the university’s core values and its commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

This year’s FedFA elections mark not just a leadership transition but a renewed commitment to collaboration, empowerment, and institutional pride among ISUFST’s teaching force. (Ricky Ramos / Herman M. Lagon / PAMMCO)