VSU Tolosa Department of Aquatic Sciences

31/03/2026

Seagrass Awareness Celebration: From Roots to Resilience: Seagrass in Action

27/03/2026

𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐖𝐄𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐑 𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐑𝐓!

Join us this March 31, 2026 for an insightful Webinar Series on Seagrass Protection and Conservation.

Hosted by the Department of Aquatic Sciences – Visayas State University Tolosa, this event aims to raise awareness and promote the sustainable management of our vital seagrass ecosystems.

What to Expect:
• Expert talks on seagrass ecology and conservation
• Current issues and protection strategies
• Interactive learning and discussions

Perks:
• FREE Registration
• FREE Certificate of Participation
📅 Date: March 31, 2026
⏰ Time: 01:00-5:00PM, Philippine Time
📍 Platform: The Zoom meeting link will be sent to your email 1-2 days after registration.

🔗 Registration Link: https://forms.gle/GiESg73cVoK8TyoMA

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, engage, and be part of protecting our marine ecosystems!

🌏 Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
🌊 SDG 14: Life Below Water
🌍 SDG 13: Climate Action

23/03/2026

𝗗𝗿𝗮𝘄𝗻 𝗯𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 🧬

𝗦𝗜𝗥𝗔𝗞: 𝗣𝗦𝗛𝗦-𝗘𝗩𝗖𝗟’𝘀 𝗦𝗠𝗧 𝗙𝗮𝗶𝗿 is almost here 🔬
The plans are coming together 🧩, and now it’s time to meet the people behind them. Our featured scientists are more than experts in their fields. They turn curiosity into breakthroughs 💥, questions into discoveries 🔎, and ideas into reality 💡.

It’s your turn to choose what sparks your curiosity ✨. Explore their stories, discover what excites you, and ignite that passion by choosing your preferred session 👩‍🔬 through the link or QR code.

🔗:
https://bit.ly/Sirak2026SIF
https://bit.ly/Sirak2026SIF
https://bit.ly/Sirak2026SIF

The future isn’t just waiting. It’s being designed. Where do you fit in? 🔭

11/03/2026

Happy 2nd Anniversary, President Yepes!

The VSU community extends its warmest greetings to our University President, Dr. Prose Ivy Guasa Yepes, as she marks her second year as the 7th President of the Visayas State University.

In the past two years, President Ivy has guided VSU with steady leadership and sound governance. Under her watch, the university continues its strides for excellence and impact, advancing instruction, research, extension, and service while shaping one of the leading higher education institutions that remains responsive to the changing times.

Happy 2nd Anniversary, President Ivy. Mabuhay po kayo!

10/03/2026

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | Assoc. Prof. Shereen Merro shared an insightful talk about their study entitled “Small-scale Tuna Fishing Industry in the Northeastern Part of Leyte, Eastern Visayas, Philippines” on February 26, 2026, via Zoom.

The webinar was organized by the Too Big To Ignore (TBTI) Philippines, with Visayas State University Tolosa serving as one of the sponsoring higher education institutions (HEIs). The activity gathered researchers, academics, and practitioners to discuss ongoing initiatives and research related to small-scale fisheries.

The studies presented during the webinar focused on key thematic areas, including the management and governance of small-scale fisheries (SSF), the economic contributions and challenges of SSF, and the socio-cultural dimensions that shape fishing communities and coastal resource use. These discussions emphasized the importance of strengthening research collaboration, policy support, and community engagement in advancing sustainable fisheries management.

Joining Assoc. Prof. Merro in the webinar were representatives from Partido State University, including the Director of the Center for Sustainable Communities, the Vice President for Research and Extension, and a faculty member from the College of Fisheries and Marine Sciences. Their presentations further enriched the discussion by sharing perspectives and experiences from different coastal communities in the Philippines.

This webinar is directly and indirectly aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); SDG1 , SDG2 , SDG8 , SDG12, , SDG14

Photos| TBTI Philippines and Rinalyn Advincula

02/03/2026

𝐈𝐂𝐘𝐌𝐈| 𝐕𝐒𝐔𝐓 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐊𝐞𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐭 𝟐𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐢-𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐲𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐮𝐦

The University of San Carlos successfully concluded the 2nd International Agri-Life Bioresource Sciences Symposium, themed “Green Frontiers: Advancing Agri-Life and Bioresource Technologies,” held on February 26–27, 2026, at the USC–Talamban Campus.

The symposium brought together leading researchers, academicians, students, and industry stakeholders to discuss emerging trends, innovations, and challenges in agri-life and bioresource sciences. The event served as a platform for interdisciplinary knowledge exchange and collaborative engagement among local and international experts.

Dr. Quenstein D. Lauzon, a faculty member of the Department of Aquatic Sciences under the Faculty of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, and the Chancellor of Visayas State University Tolosa, served as one of the keynote speakers of the symposium.

Joining Dr. Lauzon were distinguished speakers from the Philippine Carabao Center, Hiroshima University, and the University of San Carlos, as well as plenary speakers from Hiroshima University, the University of the Philippines - Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines - Visayas, and the Department of Agriculture Region VII (see post here: https://www.facebook.com/DA7centralvisayas/posts/pfbid02v8sQqa2s9FwQDcbtMMfqZV6xo8xzJRzvGXR21sku7XZjLAabm6qNn59k93jxHXtil).

Dr. Lauzon’s participation underscores VSU’s continuing commitment to academic excellence, research leadership, and regional and international collaboration. Her engagement in the symposium strengthens the university’s role in advancing sustainable solutions in agriculture, fisheries, and bioresource sciences.

This symposium is directly and indirectly aligns with the sustainable development goals (SDGs); SDG1 , SDG2 , SDG12 , SDG 14, , SDG15 and SDG17

Photos by| Mark Glenn Narido

23/02/2026

The 𝟭𝟯𝘁𝗵 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 (𝗜𝗖𝗙𝗔 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲) will be held on 29–30 September 2026 in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia, with the theme: “𝘉𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘏𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘻𝘰𝘯𝘴: 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘚𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘈𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦, 𝘍𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘉𝘪𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺.”

This international conference provides a scholarly platform for researchers, academicians, practitioners, policymakers, and postgraduate students to present research findings, exchange scientific knowledge, and discuss emerging trends, innovations, and best practices in fisheries, aquaculture, and biodiversity conservation. The conference aims to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and foster international academic partnerships.

𝐃𝐫. 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐢𝐧 𝐃. 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐳𝐨𝐧, from the Faculty of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Visayas State University Tolosa, serves as one of the Country Coordinators for the Philippines.

Faculty, staff, and students of VSU can enjoy registration discounts and other opportunities.

Interested participants may refer to the following links for submission, registration, and scholarship application:

Abstract Submission: https://aquaconference.tiikm.com/abstract-submission/
Attendee Registration: https://aquaconference.tiikm.com/attendeeregistration/
Scholarship Application: https://aquaconference.tiikm.com/scholarship-program/
Conference Details: https://aquaconference.tiikm.com/

11/02/2026

LOOK| Our very own, Dr. Quenstein D. Lauzon is one of the keynote speakers of the 2nd International Agri-Life Bioresource Sciences Symposium, centered on the theme “Green Frontiers: Advancing Agri-Life and Bioresource Technologies." Scheduled on February 26–27, 2026, at the SAFAD Theater, USC – Talamban Campus.

For more details, please email [email protected]

The University of San Carlos invites the global research community to the 2nd International Agri-Life and Bioresource Sciences Symposium, centered on the theme “Green Frontiers: Advancing Agri-Life and Bioresource Technologies.”

Scheduled for February 26–27, 2026, at the SAFAD Theater, USC – Talamban Campus, this premier gathering serves as a critical nexus for researchers, academics, and industry pioneers dedicated to bridging the gap between scientific discovery and the implementation of sustainable solutions for our global ecosystems.

For inquiries, please email [email protected].

03/02/2026

BE alumni reunite at SLSU Workshop on Enhancing Mangrove Stewardship in Southern Leyte

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)–PCAARRD, spearheaded an intensive Mangrove Biodiversity Assessment and GIS Mapping Training designed to strengthen science-based coastal conservation efforts in Southern Leyte.

The activity, titled “Enhancing Mangrove Stewardship in Southern Leyte through Stakeholder Training on Ecological and Nursery Techniques,” was implemented in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Southern Leyte and the Local Government Units of Padre Burgos and Bontoc, bringing together participants from various institutions to strengthen technical capacity in mangrove assessment, mapping, and data-driven environmental planning across the province.

The training was also attended by representatives from several Local Government Units (LGUs) in Southern Leyte, participants from Visayas State University (VSU) – Tolosa Campus, and representatives from non-government organizations based in Maasin City.

Read more at: https://southernleytestateu.edu.ph/index.php/en/menu-page-home/57-bontoc-campus-news/3691-from-shorelines-to-sustainability-slsu-bontoc-leads-mangrove-stewardship

The BE alumni in attendance include:

- Alieza Del Socorro (MSc Biology specialization in Ecology and Biodiversity '16 (formerly Human Ecology), VUB) Program Chair, BS Marine Biology, Department of Marine Biology, SLSU Bontoc Campus

- Fermina Genson (MSc Ecological Marine Management '09, VUB and UGent) Head, Department of Aquatic Sciences, Visayas State University Tolosa

- Gladys Ludevese-Pascual (MSc Aquaculture '09 and PhD in Applied Biological Sciences - Aquaculture '16, UGent) Head, Research, Innovation and Extension Services (RIES), SLSU Bontoc Campus

📷 Southern Leyte State University /Dr. Gladys Ludevese-Pascual

23/01/2026

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | 𝐃𝐀𝐪𝐒𝐜𝐢 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝟑-𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐋𝐒𝐔

On January 21–23, 2026, four (4) representatives from the Department of Aquatic Sciences (DAqSci) participated in a three-day training titled “Enhancing Mangrove Stewardship in Southern Leyte through Stakeholder Training in Ecological Techniques”, held at the Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) Main Campus.

The DAqSci delegation was led by Asst. Prof. Fermina C. Genson, Head of the Department of Aquatic Sciences, together with Mr. Christian John Santiago, and two (2) student representatives, Ms. Miles Cuya Gabas and Mr. Ruben Devaras, both third-year BS Marine Biology students.

The training aimed to enhance science-based mangrove stewardship, empower local stakeholders, and strengthen efforts to protect and conserve coastal ecosystems for future generations.

The activity was organized by Southern Leyte State University Bontoc Campus and Hinunangan Campus, and hosted by SLSU Main Campus, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST–PCAARRD), the Provincial Government of Southern Leyte, and the Local Government Units of Padre Burgos and Bontoc, Southern Leyte.

The Department of Aquatic Sciences extends its heartfelt gratitude to Southern Leyte State University for the opportunity given to our delegates to gain meaningful hands-on learning experiences.

This activity supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
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12/01/2026

Calling all youth, members of the academe, farmers, fisherfolk, public officials, athletes, civil society organizations, and all advocates of our municipal waters and small-scale fishers!

Visayas State University Tolosa, through the Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, in collaboration with Too Big To Ignore Philippines and Oceana, will hold Solidarity Walk 2026: Aton an Kinse—a walk-for-a-cause initiative advocating for the protection of the Philippines’ municipal waters and small-scale fisheries.

The activity will be held on Saturday, 31 January 2026, featuring a historic and symbolic walk from Visayas State University Tolosa, Brgy. Tanghas, Tolosa, Leyte, to MacArthur Park, Brgy. Candahug, Palo, Leyte.

This initiative is organized in solidarity with municipal and small-scale fishers who may be adversely affected by the 19 August 2024 ruling of the Supreme Court First Division, which upheld a Malabon Trial Court decision allowing Mercidar Fishing Corporation, a commercial fishing company, to operate within municipal waters—areas traditionally reserved for small-scale fishers.

While the campus has clearly expressed its position opposing this ruling, we believe that public awareness and discourse must be strengthened and elevated to reach a broader audience. The decision raises serious concerns, including intensified overfishing, the increased use of active fishing gears, degradation of coastal and marine ecosystems, and threats to the livelihoods of artisanal and small-scale fishers who depend on municipal waters.

In this light, we invite all interested sectors to join us in this collective call—to amplify the voices of some of the least represented yet most vital communities in our country.
All necessary permits and coordination letters have already been processed with the concerned Local Government Units and partner agencies. Additional event details are attached.

Make sure to register for the upcoming event: https://forms.gle/ML8BVb1AUi5yPmvQ6 . For further information, please contact us at [email protected]

The organizers shall not be held liable for any loss, damage, injury, or inconvenience incurred by participants before, during, or after the activity. Participation in the event is voluntary, and participants are expected to take full responsibility for their personal safety, health, and belongings throughout the duration of the activity.
Tara! Ipahimatngon ta ha ngatanan nga an kinse kilometro han kadagatan, aton la ngan diri pa ha iba pa man. Aton An Kinse!

This activity echoes , , , and .

04/12/2025

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | 𝐕𝐒𝐔𝐓’𝐬 𝐄𝐅𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐆𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥!

The Faculty of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences–led project “EFishCIENT: Enhancing Fisherfolks’ Skills through Capacity-Building and Implementing Strategies for Sustainable Livelihood” presented its poster at the 37th Joint ViCARP–EViAFFReDN Regional RDE Symposium held on December 2–3, 2025 at Summit Hotel, Tacloban City.

The poster was officially recognized as an entry for the Best RDE Poster, marking a significant milestone for the team and the project.

Present during the symposium were Dr. Quenstein D. Lauzon, Project Leader, Ms. Mary Ann B. Madeja, project staff and Allen D. Modina, Research Assistant. The recognition also highlights the collective efforts of the working team: Ms. Doryn Jan Lauzon, Dr. June Rey A. Montajes, Mr. Brandon Briggs C. Silvano, Ms. Riza R. Regato, Ms. Crizhane Domingo, and the dedicated support staff of the project.

This activity is directly and indirectly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs: SDG1 , SDG2 , SDG8 , SDG13 , SDG14 and SDG17