ISUFST, Rotary clubs to launch PHP 1.8-M lab project

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) will sign a PHP 1.8 million Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) this Friday, October 17, 2025, at Sam’s 21 Hotel in Iloilo City with the Rotary Club of Iloilo (District 3850) and the Rotary Club of Namweon Central (District 3670, South Korea) to launch Project POWER UP, a global collaboration to modernize ISUFST’s Bachelor in Industrial Technology (BIT) programs in Electronics and Electrical Servicing.

Funded under the Rotary International Global Grant GG2682848, the project will provide modern laboratory tools, technical assistance, and capacity-building support for ISUFST’s College of Industrial Technology.

Project POWER UP—short for Project for Optimized Workforce-Readiness through Equipment and Resource Upgrade for Professional Certification—aims to establish a TESDA-accredited NC II Assessment Center for Electronic Products Assembly and Servicing (EPAS) and Electrical Installation and Maintenance.

The initiative targets improved workforce readiness for students—many from fishing, farming, and low-income families—by providing industry-grade training and real-world skills development.

The RC Iloilo delegation will be led by President Dr. Lucio Encio, with President-Elect Dr. Rye Halili, Immediate Past President Atty. Peter John Raymund Pacheco, and Past President Engr. Jesus Anayas, joined by members and spouses, with Governor Past Governor John Michael “Kano” Ng, Assistant Governor Amy Gabion, and District Secretary Adrian Funtelar as special guests.

Representing the international partner, RC Namweon Central will be headed by Global Grant Chair Wang Hee Kim, with Immediate Past President Yunkil Nam and Assistant Governor Mark Hongjaw Jeong of RC Zamboanga North (District 3850).

From ISUFST, President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr. and Dr. Herman M. Lagon, Director of Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications and Project Leader, serve as the university’s main Rotarian proponents—demonstrating the link between Rotary service and higher education in action.

The collaboration advances UN SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by aligning technical education with real-world employment opportunities.

Under the grant, PHP 1.8 million has been allocated for laboratory equipment, installation, and freight costs.

Implementation will follow four phases: procurement and preparation, installation and orientation, calibration and pilot testing, and full integration into the BIT Electronics and Electrical courses.

ISUFST will also continue faculty training toward TESDA assessor accreditation to ensure long-term sustainability.

Building on its PHP 1.89 million Rotary Global Grant in 2025 that upgraded its automotive lab, ISUFST is now launching its second Global Grant to further deepen its partnership with Rotary and equip Western Visayas learners with real-world skills and opportunities.