ILOILO City – The Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center/Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD) hosted its annual Farmers Forum 2024 on July 9 in Tigbauan, Iloilo, bringing together local government representatives, academics, and aquaculture enthusiasts from across Western Visayas.
The forum, part of SEAFDEC’s 51st anniversary celebrations themed “51 Years Strong: SEAFDEC/AQD Leading Aquaculture Innovation”, aimed to disseminate the latest technological advancements and research outcomes.
Dr. Roger Edward Mamauag of SEAFDEC highlighted the organization’s decade-long tradition of conducting these forums to bridge the gap between aquaculture research and practical application.
“The research results can be adapted by the farmers to enhance their operations,” Dr. Mamauag explained during a media interview.
The forum featured several in-house researchers and industry experts who shared insights into various aquaculture technologies.
Marwin Dela Cruz presented on the polyculture of Giant Freshwater Prawn with tilapia and milkfish, outlining the necessary processes from pond preparation to harvesting.
Dr. Frolan Aya discussed the challenges and high costs associated with Tropical Anguillid Eel culture, noting its high export value.
Kathleen Trebol, operations manager at Marmi Farm in Negros Occidental, advocated for sustainable and innovative shrimp farming practices. She noted the potential for higher income from shrimp farming, particularly in Panay Island, and shared best practices including the “3Cs”: Clean Pond, Clean Water, and Clean Fry.
Another highlight was the presentation by Irene Cabanilla-Legaspi on Pompano Hatchery techniques, underscoring the species’ adaptability and suitability for aquaculture.
Dr. Mamauag also discussed nursery and grow-out operations for Pompano, emphasizing its potential profitability and viability as an alternative to milkfish.
The event also included practical sessions on tilapia masculinization, micropropagation of seaweeds, disease diagnosis, and induced spawning of catfish.
Participants expressed their gratitude for the knowledge gained. Enrique Rojas from Leganes, Iloilo noted the forum’s role in providing fresh insights on aquaculture innovation, while Gelyn Cayanan of Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, appreciated the advanced level of information shared by the resource persons./PN
