By Kenneth Marcos 
A quiet buzz of curiosity filled the training room as fisheries researchers gathered, eager to learn how to track fish without harming them. For many participants, this was their first hands-on experience with advanced hydroacoustic tools that could transform how the Philippines manages its marine resources.
From October 14–16 and November 3–5, 2025, the Department of Agriculture – National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) conducted a specialized two-phase training on the basic use and operation of multibeam echosounders, a high-tech system used to estimate fish populations. The program was part of the Philippine Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency (FISHCORE) project under FishCRRM Subcomponent 1.1.
Researchers from NFRDI’s Capture Fisheries Research and Development Division joined representatives from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Capture Fisheries Division to enhance their skills in hydroacoustic monitoring. The training emphasized both theoretical knowledge and practical application, allowing participants to operate multibeam systems in real-world conditions.
Multibeam echosounders use sound waves to map underwater habitats and measure fish biomass without disrupting marine ecosystems. This non-invasive method is increasingly critical as fisheries worldwide face overfishing and climate-related challenges. By strengthening technical capacity in this field, the DA aims to provide more accurate data to guide sustainable fishing policies and ensure food security for Filipino communities dependent on marine resources.
The training also highlighted collaboration between agencies, promoting a unified approach to fisheries management. Participants expressed optimism that the new skills would improve research accuracy and support evidence-based policymaking for coastal conservation.
As the Philippines works to protect its marine biodiversity and support the livelihoods of millions of fishers, initiatives like this hydroacoustic training demonstrate the government’s commitment to modernizing fisheries science. By combining technology, research, and responsible management, the country moves closer to resilient and sustainable coastal ecosystems.
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