ISUFST to Launch PHP270M Fisheries Complex by 2025

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A visionary PHP270-million infrastructure project by the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) is set to begin taking shape in Academic Year 2025–2026 at its Main Campus-Tiwi Site in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo.

The initiative is led by ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. and aims to become the largest fisheries complex of its kind in the region.

More than a construction project, the complex integrates the university’s core mandates in fisheries, marine biology, marine transportation, science, and technology into an immersive “Tour Trail” learning experience.

As the country’s only state university focused solely on fisheries, ISUFST seeks to affirm its national leadership and global relevance through this development.

“This is more than just a complex; it is a legacy of learning,” said Siason.

He envisions a hub where science, technology, and community development converge in a trail that reflects the university’s identity and aspirations.

The entrance begins with Point 1: University Learning Resource Center, a soon-to-rise two-story library funded by a PHP22.5-million allocation from the Office of Iloilo 4th District Rep. Ferjenel G. Biron.

It will feature air-conditioned reading areas, lounges, computers, fast internet, and upper-floor amenities such as an iLounge, nap rooms, co-working zones, and digital research stations.

The center will include a community-accessible gate to serve the wider district and province.

The library will connect via ramp to Point 2: Monfort Hall, which will soon undergo renovation to house journal archives and a digital lab.

Beside it is Point 3: Fisheries and Marine Museum, a CHED-funded facility supported by former CHED Chair Prospero “Popoy” de Vera, showcasing the region’s aquatic biodiversity and fishing heritage.

Both spaces are expected to open by late 2025.

Point 4: Bagangan Café, a former bus turned café under the College of Hospitality Management, opens in August as a casual study and startup incubation space.

It includes garden seating, a campus LED wall for updates and events, and views of the university fountain and marker.

“Learning isn’t limited to classrooms anymore—and Bagangan Café is proof of that,” Siason said.

Nearby, Point 5: Paler Hall, inaugurated in May 2025, honors fisheries educator Dr. Reynaldo Paler.

It serves as a study and exhibit space featuring topnotchers and academic milestones.

Adjacent are Point 6: state-of-the-art laboratories and Point 7: the Social Hall for research, extension, and academic activities.

Also operational are:

Point 8: Microbiology Building, with PHP45 million in funding for equipment and advanced labs.

Point 9: Fish Processing Laboratory, where students innovate fishery products blending science and tradition.

Point 10: College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Building, a newly renovated academic hub.

Point 11: Department of Biology Building, formerly the Procurement Office, now houses marine biology and fisheries technology offices.

Point 12: Research and Extension Hub, inaugurated in June 2025, features the Hasa-Hasa Auditorium, SapSap Hall, innovation spaces, and has hosted major academic conferences.

Point 13: Integrated Freshwater Station, a PHP5-million lab for hands-on aquaculture training.

Point 14: Fish Processing Plant, producing HACCP-certified products and supporting community enterprises.

“It’s not just for show—it’s for skill-building, livelihood, and research,” said Prof. Rolindo Demo-os Jr., CFAS dean.

ISUFST has been a CHED-recognized Center of Development in Fisheries for nine years and holds ISO 9001:2015 certification and strong board exam performance.

Another key addition is the PHP80-million Sports Complex featuring Point 15: an Olympic-size oval track and Point 16: swimming pool, co-funded by the General Appropriations Act, Cong. Biron’s office, Cong. Jojo Ang’s Uswag Ilonggo initiative, and university income.

Rounding off the complex is Point 17: the Brackishwater Training and Research Center, an 18-million-peso, 24-hectare field lab and mangrove area for aquaculture research and training.

Dr. Edmer Bernardo, director for planning and development, said the trail was designed for cohesion between infrastructure and innovation.

“This trail is the university in motion,” he said.

The complex is gaining national recognition, attracting visits from state universities and a planned benchmarking tour by a Taiwanese university in mid-2025.

Despite its three-year status as a university, ISUFST has 68 years of public education legacy and now offers 27 undergraduate and 16 graduate programs, with six more in development.

It serves 8,500 students across five campuses with 280 faculty members, half of whom have doctorate degrees.

The Fisheries Complex stands as a bold symbol of ISUFST’s commitment to education, innovation, and community service—anchored in sustainability, global relevance, and local identity. (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)