By Kenneth Marcos 
The lively halls of Royce Hotel in Clark, Pampanga, buzzed with hope and determination on September 24, 2025, as the Department of Agriculture’s National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) formally launched the 11th Fisheries Scientific Conference (Fish SciCon). This gathering brought together scientists, fishermen, policymakers, and stakeholders who share one goal: a stronger, more sustainable future for Philippine fisheries.
Under the theme “From Research to Application: Transforming Fisheries for a Productive and Sustainable Future,” the conference highlights how scientific research must be turned into real actions. These actions aim to solve urgent problems in fishing, protect marine resources, and secure food for millions of Filipinos who rely on the sea.
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries, delivered the keynote address via video. He stressed the importance of improving the lives of fishing communities through better support and policies. He called for tighter cooperation among fisheries agencies to manage the country’s rich marine resources responsibly.
The Philippines, an archipelago with over 7,000 islands, depends heavily on fisheries for food and livelihoods. Yet, challenges such as overfishing, climate change, and habitat destruction threaten these resources. Fish SciCon provides a vital platform where researchers present new studies, share innovative technologies, and discuss sustainable practices that fishermen can adopt.
DA-NFRDI, the lead government agency for fisheries research, aims to bridge the gap between science and everyday fishing practices. By doing so, it hopes to increase fish production while preserving marine ecosystems.
This year’s event also features workshops and discussions on topics like aquaculture, coastal resource management, and fishery policy development. Participants include government officials, scientists, local fisherfolk, and private sector partners, all working to shape a future where fishing remains a viable and sustainable livelihood.
As the conference unfolds, the message is clear: science must serve the people, especially those whose lives depend on the sea. Protecting our fisheries is not just about preserving nature—it is about ensuring food security, economic stability, and the well-being of countless Filipino families.
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