SSU-Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Research and Development

As the year ends, we celebrate not only the joy of the season but also our shared commitment to protecting, sustaining, and nurturing our aquatic resources. 🌟🐟
May this Christmas bring waves of hope, and may the New Year inspire deeper collaboration, innovative research, and stronger stewardship for our fisheries and aquatic ecosystems.

🎄 Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 🎆
From our CFARRD family to yours—here’s to a future that flows with sustainability, resilience, and new beginnings.

The Samar State University – Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Research and Development (SSU-CFARRD) successfully conducted the Capacity Building Workshop for Barangay Officials and FARMCs: Enhancing Local Enforcement and Policy Communication on Blue Swimming Crab Conservation on October 21, 2025, at the SSU Research and Innovation Center, Audio Visual Room. This activity, under the project “Strengthening Fisherfolk Knowledge and Compliance on Blue Swimming Crab Conservation,” aimed to empower local leaders, enhance policy communication, and strengthen stakeholder collaboration toward sustainable Blue Swimming Crab fisheries management.

A key highlight of the workshop was the development of draft local ordinances for Blue Swimming Crab conservation, crafted by participants through guided sessions on legal frameworks and policy formulation. The activity also tackled common enforcement issues and strategies for effective local implementation. Supported by PILCD, the Catbalogan City Office of the City Agriculture, and the Office of the Provincial Fisheries, Samar, the event gathered Barangay Officials, CFARMC members, PNP representatives, crabmeat processors, and fisherfolks who collectively committed to advancing community-based marine conservation. 🌊🦀

Samar State University, through the Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Research and Development (CFARRD), has successfully concluded its In-House Review for Research and Extension (R&E) Projects for 2026 Funding. This event showcased the university's robust commitment to its fourfold functions—instruction, research, extension, and production—by strengthening initiatives that align with both institutional thrusts and national development priorities.

The review served as a dynamic platform for faculty researchers and extensionists across various colleges, including the College of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (COFMAS), College of Education (COED), College of Industrial Technology (CIT), and the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). A total of 14 compelling research proposals and 7 innovative extension program proposals were presented, reflecting the diverse expertise and dedication of the SSU academic community.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our esteemed panel of evaluators whose invaluable insights and expertise elevated the proceedings:

Dr. Quenstien Lauzon, Chancellor of VSU Tolosa Campus
Dr. Richard Verdeflor of Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU)
Ms Diana Shane Balindo, Director of SSU-CFARRD

Their critical feedback was instrumental in refining the proposals, ensuring they are not only academically sound but also impactful and responsive to community needs.

This activity underscores the vital role of our faculty in advancing knowledge, innovation, and sustainable development. By actively participating in research and extension, our academics fulfill their professional and social responsibility to contribute tangible solutions to pressing issues in sustainable fisheries, marine conservation, climate resilience, and socio-economic development.

The proposed projects are strategically aligned with the core thrusts of CFARRD:
♻️ Sustainable Fisheries and Marine Conservation
🌏 Climate Change, Pollution, and Ocean-Human Health
🧬 Marine Genomics, Biotechnology and Innovations in Marine Research
🗺️ Ecosystem-Based Marine Spatial Planning and Socio-Economic Impacts and Policy

Congratulations to all the presenters for their outstanding work! Through endeavors like this, SSU continues to foster a culture of research excellence and collaboration that supports evidence-based policymaking and empowers our communities.

We Innovate. We Build. We Serve.

🌊💙 Clean Seas, Resilient Communities! 💙🌊

This year’s International Coastal Cleanup Day 2025 made waves in the barangays of Sierra Island, Catbalogan, Samar! From September 18–20, volunteers rolled up their sleeves for a massive coastal cleanup and marine conservation technology forum. 🧤🗑️

Together with students, youth groups, barangay officials, and residents, we collected, identified, and segregated piles of solid waste that were properly turned over to the Metro Waste collection area. Every piece of trash cleared was a step toward a cleaner and healthier coastline! 🌱✨

But the effort didn’t stop there. After the cleanup, we gathered for a Marine Conservation Forum where experts and community members shared insights on:
🌊 The importance of Marine Ecosystems
🚯 Tackling Marine Litter and the Plastic Problem
♻️ Innovative Solid Waste Management Technologies to fight marine pollution

🤝 This impactful event was made possible through the collaboration of Peoples Initiative of Learning and Community Development (PILCD), SSU–Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Research and Development, SSU–Mercedes Campus, SSU-College of Education, Catbalogan City Agriculture Office, and Antonio G. Tuazon National High School.

👏 Huge thanks to all the participants—our dedicated residents, officials, students, and youth leaders of Sierra Islands. Together, we take steps toward protecting our seas, empowering our communities, and securing a sustainable future for the next generations. 🌍💪

🎣 CALL FOR PROPOSALS IS NOW OPEN! 🎣

Attention, all SSU Faculty Researchers and Innovators!

The Center for Fisheries, Aquatic, and Marine Research and Development (CFARRD) is launching its In-House Review for Research and Extension (R&E) Projects for 2026 Funding! 🌊🔬

This is your chance to turn your groundbreaking ideas into fully-funded projects that create real impact. We are looking for proposals that align with our core thrusts:

🔹 Sustainable Fisheries and Marine Conservation
🔹 Climate Change, Pollution, and Ocean-Human Health
🔹 Marine Genomics, Biotechnology and Innovations
🔹 Ecosystem-Based Marine Spatial Planning and Socio-Economic Policy

📅 Deadline of Submission: October 9, 2025
📩 Submit your proposals to: [email protected]

Let’s work together to innovate, build, and serve our communities through transformative marine and aquatic research!

We Innovate. We Build. We Serve.

For more details, guidelines, or inquiries, feel free to:
📧 Email us: [email protected]
💌 Message us on FB
👩‍💻 Visit our office: (4th Floor RIC Building)

Spread the word! Share this post with your colleagues and research partners.

🌊🌱 Coastal Resources Regeneration and Management in Action! 🌱🌊

The Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Research and Development (CFARRD) and SSU Mercedes Campus, in partnership with LGU Catbalogan City, Peoples Initiative for Learning and Community Development (PILCD), successfully conducted a Community-Based Training on Coral Reef Restoration in Brgy Bagongon and Monbon Sierra, Catbalogan City 🐠🌿.

Participants learned hands-on techniques in coral reef restoration, including the preparation and installation of artificial reef structures using repurposed bottles under SSU-CCFARRD R&D Project No. 025-02: Biological Effect of Artificial Reef Using Repurposed Bottles. 💡♻️

The activity also featured field surveys, reef monitoring training, and community dialogues, empowering local stakeholders to safeguard marine ecosystems for ecological balance, sustainable fisheries, and future generations. 🌏💙

Together, we are building stronger coastal communities through science, collaboration, and action! 🤝✨

🦀💙 Strengthening Fisherfolk Knowledge for Blue Swimming Crab Conservation 💙🦀

The Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Research and Development (CFARRD), together with SSU-COED Science Section, SSU-Mercedes Campus Marine Biology Section, and in collaboration with PILCD, successfully conducted a community-based extension activity in Brgy. Bagongon, Estaka, and Pangdan.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Participants—fisherfolk, barangay officials, and the general public—engaged in discussions on the key provisions of Blue Swimming Crab (BSC) conservation policies, using fisher-friendly IEC materials, visual aids, and community-based strategies designed for clarity and relevance.

📑 This initiative is grounded in the published research on the Evaluation of the Local Ecological Knowledge and Conservation Attitudes of Fishermen toward Blue Swimming Crab Fisheries Management, ensuring that science directly informs and empowers local communities.

🌊 Through strengthened awareness, voluntary compliance, and collective action, we move closer to sustainable crab fisheries and healthier coastal ecosystems.

📌 Capacity Building on Sustainable Aquaculture and Fishery Management
📅 August 26, 2025
📍 Hinabangan, Samar

The successful Capacity Building on Sustainable Aquaculture and Fishery was held in Hinabangan, Samar gathering local officials, fisheries experts, and community members.

👨‍🏫 Mr. Krisanto L. Bacnutan (SSU–Mercedes Campus) tackled the History and Biology of Tilapia, providing participants with a deeper understanding of its value in aquaculture.
👨‍🏫 Mr. Andrew M. Gamba (CFARRD) stressed the need for careful site selection to ensure the productivity of fishponds.
👨‍🏫 Mr. Romeo N. Sultan (PLGU-PFO) gave an extensive discussion on pond preparation, proper stocking density, feeding practices, fish sampling, harvesting, and marketing techniques.

An open forum provided space for participants to exchange ideas, ask questions, and address real-life challenges in aquaculture. The program wrapped up with gratitude extended to all partners and stakeholders whose support made the event a success.

🤝 This training was made possible through the collaboration of the Municipal LGU of Hinabangan and the Samar Provincial Fisheries Office, with the dedication of resource persons and researchers.

🌱 By equipping participants with practical know-how and updated strategies in tilapia production, the program contributes to food security, livelihood enhancement, and the sustainable growth of the local fisheries sector.

📌 Capacity Building on Tilapia Culture and Management
📅 August 27, 2025
📍 San Jose de Buan, Samar

The Capacity Building on Tilapia Culture and Management was successfully held in San Jose de Buan, bringing together local officials, fisheries experts, and community members. The event opened with remarks from Ms. Nimfa C. Reyes, the Municipal Agriculturist of MLGU San Jose de Buan, followed by Hon. Rene L. Rebato, Sangguniang Bayan Member, who underscored the LGU’s dedication to strengthening fisheries development in the municipality.

👨‍🏫 Mr. Krisanto L. Bacnutan (SSU–Mercedes Campus) presented the History and Biology of Tilapia, highlighting its importance as a key aquaculture species.
👨‍🏫 Mr. Romeo N. Sultan (PLGU-PFO) provided in-depth discussions on pond design and management, stocking practices, hapa net use, feeding systems, as well as harvesting and marketing techniques.

An interactive open forum gave participants the chance to raise concerns, share experiences, and learn directly from the experts. The session closed with acknowledgments to the resource speakers, facilitators, and local leaders whose cooperation ensured the success of the activity.

🤝 This initiative was realized through the collaboration of the Samar Provincial Fisheries Office and the Municipal LGU of San Jose de Buan, with the support of committed researchers and technical experts.

🌱 By equipping participants with hands-on knowledge and updated practices in tilapia farming, the program contributes to food security, livelihood development, and the sustainable growth of local fisheries.

📌 Capacity Building on Sustainable Fish Farming and Resources Management
📍 August 14, 2025 | Motiong, Samar

The Capacity Building on Sustainable Fish Farming and Resources Management led by the SSU-Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Research and Development was successfully conducted with the participation of community members, experts, and local officials. The activity formally opened by the Welcome Message of Hon. Rene Anthony D. Cabael, Municipal Mayor of Motiong, who expressed his full support for fisheries development in the locality.

👨‍🏫 Mr. Krisanto L. Bacnutan (SSU–Mercedes Campus) and provided valuable insights on the biology and importance of tilapia.
👨‍🏫 Mr. Andrew M. Gamba (CFARRD) discussed the important role of site selection in fishpond operations.
👨‍🏫 Mr. Romeo N. Sultan (PLGU-PFO) gave a comprehensive lecture on pond construction, stocking density, hapa net installation, feeds and feeding management, harvesting, and marketing.

An open forum allowed participants to ask questions and share experiences, making the training interactive and community-driven. The program ended with words of gratitude from Mr. Vicente U. Dalimet III, Aquacultural Technologist of MLGU Motiong, for the strong collaboration of all stakeholders.

🤝 This meaningful activity was made possible through the partnership of the Municipal LGU of Motiong and the Samar Provincial Fisheries Office, together with dedicated resource speakers and researchers.

🌱 The training equipped participants with technical knowledge and practical skills in tilapia aquaculture, helping strengthen food security, sustainable livelihoods, and fisheries development in the municipality.

📌 Skills Training on Sustainable Aquaculture and Fishery Management
📅 August 13, 2025
📍 Campo Uno, Tenani, Paranas, Samar

Our training on tilapia production was successfully conducted with engaging lectures and discussions led by people in aquaculture.

👨‍🏫 Mr. Krisanto L. Bacnutan (SSU–Mercedes Campus), 👩‍🏫 Ms. Coleen S. Tibar (CFARRD), together with the BS Marine Biology On-the-Job Training students, shared insights on the biology and importance of tilapia.
👨‍🏫 Mr. Andrew M. Gamba (CFARRD) emphasized the value of proper site selection in fishpond operations.
👨‍🏫 Mr. Romeo N. Sultan (PLGU-PFO) gave a comprehensive lecture on pond construction, stocking density, hapa net installation, feeds and feeding management, harvesting, and marketing.

An open forum allowed participants to raise questions and share experiences, making the training more interactive and meaningful.

🌱 This activity equipped our community with valuable knowledge and skills in sustainable aquaculture—paving the way for improved livelihood opportunities and food security in the municipality.

SSU Faculty Excel at ViCARP Level 2 Cluster 2 RDE Review 2025

Samar State University (SSU) proudly marked its strong presence in the recently concluded Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Program (ViCARP) Level 2 Cluster 2 RDE Review held on August 7–8, 2025, hosted by Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU).
A total of five research projects were presented by SSU faculty researchers, four institutionally funded under the SSU-Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Research and Development (CFARRD) and one externally funded under the SSU–Samar Island GIS and Data Analytics Center (SIGDAC).
Highlights of SSU’s Participation:

🥈 2nd Place – Completed Research Category
Project MAPULON.io: Smart Mapping of Agricultural Production Using Locational Optimization and Spatial Data Analysis
By Engr. Raven Tabiongan (SSU-SIGDAC)
This innovative research earned 2nd place and was elevated to the ViCARP Regional RDE Symposium, recognizing its relevance to precision agriculture and spatial decision support.

🥉 3rd Place – On-Going Research Category
Morphometric and Genetic Characterization of Blue Swimming Crab (Portunus pelagicus, Forskal, 1775) along the Eastern Coasts of Bicol and Eastern Visayas, Philippines
By Diana Shane A. Balindo (SSU-CFARRD)
This study won 3rd place and qualified for the ViCARP Regional RDE Poster Session, showcasing SSU’s commitment to fisheries research and marine biodiversity conservation.

✅ Qualified for Regional Poster Session
Detection of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) Toxin in Green Mussel (Perna viridis) Sold in Local Supermarkets in Samar, Philippines
By Reuel Amascual (SSU-CFARRD)
This public health-centered research also qualified for the ViCARP Regional RDE Poster Session, highlighting SSU’s role in environmental monitoring and food safety.

SSU-CFARRD commends all participating researchers for their outstanding performance and contributions to science and regional development. These achievements reflect the center’s continued mission to promote research excellence in fisheries, aquatic sciences, and allied fields.