PRC Fisheries Board Praises ISUFST for Program Excellence

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BAROTAC NUEVO, Iloilo – The Professional Regulatory Board of Fisheries under the Professional Regulation Commission commended the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology for excellence in its flagship fisheries program during an inspection and monitoring visit held Monday, April 14, 2025, at the Main Campus–Tiwi Site.

The visit, led by PRB-Fisheries members Joebert Toledo, Carlos Baylon and Gerald Quinitio, assessed the readiness, performance and learning environment of the university’s College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences.

According to the initial inspection report, ISUFST stood out for its qualified and dynamic faculty, strong research and instructional programs and a conducive academic setting.

The board cited the college’s consistent national performance in licensure exams, including recent topnotchers and above-average passing rates in the Fisheries Professional Licensure Examinations.

University President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. thanked the PRC Board for recognizing ISUFST’s work in fisheries education.

“This visit reaffirms that our efforts in research, instruction and extension are bearing fruit—not just for ISUFST, but for the communities we serve,” Siason said.

“More than prestige, our mission has always been grounded in social justice: to make quality education accessible and empowering,” he added.

As part of its commitment to equity and service, ISUFST provides free licensure examination review programs not only to its own graduates but also to graduates of other institutions.

The initiative is part of the university’s social responsibility efforts and honors the legacy of the late Dr. Reynaldo Paler, a former CFAS faculty member known for his advocacy for inclusive, community-based education.

The PRC Board also cited institutional strengths such as strong internet connectivity, updated library holdings, advanced laboratory equipment, smart classrooms, and active support from the Commission on Higher Education and local government units.

They also noted that the campus has ample space for future development.

Only minor recommendations were made, all considered easily actionable.

Hon. Quinitio praised ISUFST’s establishment of a review hub, which has helped improve FPLE performance.

He also advised the university to begin preparing students for future computer-based licensure exams.

Hon. Toledo encouraged further incentives for research initiatives, while Hon. Baylon recommended strengthening faculty mentoring systems for long-term academic growth.

CFAS Dean Dr. Rolindo Demo-s said the visit validated the ongoing efforts of faculty and staff.

“What we’ve built here in CFAS is not just a program—it’s a community,” Demo-s said.

“The PRC’s recognition fuels our passion to keep raising the bar in fisheries education.”

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga added, “Quality education is not accidental—it is deliberate.”

“Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure that instruction, research and student services align with national standards and global goals,” she said.

“This feedback inspires us to do more.”

The visit concluded with a shared commitment between ISUFST and PRC to continue elevating the university’s academic and professional benchmarks.

As the only state university in the country focused solely on fisheries science and technology, ISUFST continues to deliver innovative, inclusive and globally competitive education. (CFAS / Herman Lagon / PAMMCO)