Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) has participated in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) and awarding of various fishery projects in Ilocos Norte. The event was held at the Regional Freshwater Aquaculture Technology Demonstration Center (RFATDeC)-Paoay, Ilocos Norte. The understanding was forged between four agencies and their representatives: BFAR-Region 1 (Dir. Rosario Segundina Gaerlan), DOST-Region 1 (Dr. Teresita Tabaog), DOST-ITDI Dr. Anabelle Briones), and DMMMSU (Dr. Angelina Gonzales).
Other representative from DMMMSU during the event were Dr. Emerita D. Galiste, Director for Extension; Dr. Andie John D. Tadeo, Director of Fisheries Research and Training Institute, and Ms. Jannah Kristine Vengazo.
The MOU signing and awarding ceremony was aimed at strengthening collaboration and cooperation among the different organizations involved in the fishery industry in Region 1 and to accelerate salt initiatives in Region 1 (OneASIN). The event also aimed to promote sustainable fishery practices and improve the livelihood of fisherfolk in the Region.
The event was graced by Governor Matthew Manotoc and the Congressmen of Ilocos Norte. This was one of the highlighted activities of BFAR during the distribution of salt production facilities and fishery projects to registered fisherfolk associations in Ilocos Norte.
DMMMSU, which has a strong research program in agriculture and fisheries and recognized for its contribution to the development of the fishery industry in the Region will serve as a learning service provider on salt production during the capacity building of beneficiaries in the four provinces of Region 1 from production, enhancement and salt iodization; participate in the technology demonstration on salt production using HDPE in the identified salt areas involved in the project; and monitor the sustainability and conduct impact assessment of the livelihood project.
DMMMSU has been awarded various projects related to fishery, including the establishment of a fish hatchery and the conduct of training programs for fisherfolk.
“We are honored to receive these projects and be recognized for our efforts in promoting sustainable fishery practices,” said Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. in a short interview. “We believe that these projects will not only benefit the fisherfolk in Region 1 but also contribute to the development of the fishery industry in the country.”
The MOU signing and awarding ceremony is part of the government’s efforts to promote sustainable fishery practices and improve the livelihood of fisherfolk in the country. It is also in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 14 which aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources.
DMMMSU, as a leading academic institution in the Region, has committed to continue its efforts in promoting sustainable fishery practices through research, extension, and education. The University is optimistic that its collaboration with other organizations will contribute to the sustainable development of the fishery industry in the region. (By Ayu)