Performing its role to implement research programs related to fisheries biotechnology and build R4D network among members of the DA-R4D networks, the Department of Agriculture- Fisheries Biotechnology Center (DA-FBC) led by the Department of Agriculture- National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) was joined by the Department of Agriculture-Biotech Program Office (DA-BPO) in a ceremonial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing with the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISATU) and Northern Iloilo State University (NISU) on March 4, 2024 at Seda Atria, Iloilo City.

Present during the MOU signing are the Director of the DA-BPO, Dr. Paul C. Limson; Executive Director of the DA-NFRDI, Dr. Lilian C. Garcia; Center Chief of the DA-FBC, Dr. Casiano H. Choresca, Jr; University President of ISATU, Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr. accompanied by Dr. Richard C. De Leon and Dr. Gwen M. Anuevo; and the Campus Administrator of NISU-Concepcion Campus, Dr. Larry B. Deysolong and Ms. Jona Sosas on behalf of their University President Dr. Bobby Gerardo.

During her message, Dr. Lilian C. Garcia said “In the end, para san po ba talaga itong ginagawa natin? In real life ang pinaka dahilan is maraming nagugutom at kawawang Pilipino at kapag nakikita mo ang kalagayan ng kapwa natin and that will propel us and that would push us in order to do more. In the end, lahat ng ito, ay para makatulong sa ating mga kababayan. Maraming tao ang nabago ang buhay through R and D.”. It highlighted the rationale behind the conduct of the research and development projects in the country.

The MOU signing aims to strengthen networking and linkages among research institutions in the field of fisheries biotechnology. The activity will foster a meaningful collaboration with the network institutions, dedicated to research and development that will positively impact the fisheries sector through the advancement of fisheries biotechnology in the country.