The Philippine Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency (FishCoRe) Project fully supported the conduct of the 11th Fisheries Scientific Conference (Fish SciCon) organized by the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) and held on September 24–25, 2025, at the Royce Hotel in Clark, Pampanga.
With the theme, “From Research to Application: Transforming Fisheries for a Productive and Sustainable Future,” the event highlighted the critical role of science and research in advancing sustainable fisheries management, ensuring food security, and promoting resilient coastal development. FishCoRe’s active participation in the event reflects its advocacy for food security through evidence-based and climate-resilient approaches in shaping the future of the Philippine fisheries sector.
In a message from BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig, delivered by BFAR Assistant Director for Technical Services Isidro Velayo Jr., he applauded the researchers for going beyond science and contributing directly to the improvement of the fisheries sector.
During one of the plenary sessions, the FishCoRe Project was prominently featured. FishCoRe Deputy Project Manager Jessica Muñoz outlined its three major components: Fisheries and Coastal Resilient Resource Planning and Management (FishCRRM), Modern and Resilient Livelihood Investments (MARLIN), and Support to Project Implementation and Management (SuPriM). These components collectively aim to promote sustainable practices, improve fisherfolk livelihoods, and build coastal community resilience against environmental and economic challenges.
A presentation from newly appointed NFRDI Executive Director Dr. Maria Theresa Mutia, delivered by Dr. Mudjekeewis Santos of NFRDI, elaborated on the science behind FishCoRe’s programs, highlighting the essential role of research in mitigating climate change and enhancing fisheries productivity.
The conference served as a platform not only for experts but also for students and young researchers. FishCoRe’s support for Fish SciCon underscores its belief that youth engagement in scientific dialogue is essential. By providing opportunities for students to present their research, the conference nurtures the next generation of thinkers whose ideas, when applied, can drive meaningful change in the fisheries sector.
On the final day, Dr. Mutia reiterated that research must lead to real-world impact—a message that the FishCoRe Project strongly upholds as it continues to bridge science, policy, and practice toward a food-secure and climate-resilient future for Philippine fisheries.
