By Kenneth Marcos 
On a quiet morning by the fish ponds of Taal, young students traded their classrooms for boots and notebooks. Instead of textbooks, they observed water quality, fish care, and research work that support the country’s food supply. For these students, learning became real, hands-on, and closely tied to the lives of Filipino fishers and consumers.
Eighteen Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students from Taal Senior High School have completed their 80-hour work immersion program at the Freshwater Fisheries Research and Development Center (FFRDC) of the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI). The training was held from January 12 to 23, 2026, under the Students’ Training Support (STrainS) program.
The immersion gave students a rare look into how science supports the country’s freshwater fisheries sector. During the two-week program, the students took part in research and development activities that are usually handled by professional scientists and technicians. These included basic laboratory procedures, farm operations, and office work related to fisheries research.
At the fish farms, students learned how freshwater species are raised and managed. They were introduced to proper feeding, pond maintenance, and monitoring of water conditions. These activities helped them understand how good farm practices can improve fish health and increase production.
Inside the laboratory, the students were taught simple but important procedures used in fisheries research. They learned how data is collected, recorded, and analyzed. Researchers also explained how science-based decisions help improve fish growth, reduce losses, and protect the environment.
The program also highlighted the importance of sustainable aquaculture. Students were taught why responsible fish farming matters, especially as the country faces challenges such as climate change, water pollution, and growing food demand. They learned that research plays a key role in making sure fish production remains safe, affordable, and environmentally sound.
NFRDI-FFRDC officials said the training aims to inspire young Filipinos to consider careers in science and fisheries. By exposing students early to real-world applications of STEM, the program hopes to build future professionals who can help strengthen the country’s fisheries sector.
Fisheries remain an important source of food and livelihood for millions of Filipinos. Freshwater fish, in particular, provide affordable protein for many families. Research centers like FFRDC help ensure that fish farming continues to improve through innovation and scientific study.
Teachers and parents welcomed the program, saying it gave students practical skills and a deeper appreciation of science beyond the classroom. Many of the participants said the experience helped them see how their studies could be used to serve communities and support national development.
As the students returned to school, they carried with them new knowledge and a clearer view of how science can help feed the nation. Programs like STrainS show how education, when combined with hands-on experience, can prepare the youth to play a role in building a stronger and more sustainable fisheries sector.
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