To share and discuss emerging technologies and trends in the agri-fisheries sector, the National Academy of Science and Technology of the Philippines (NAST PHL) convened distinguished scientists and researchers from both the public and private sectors for a roundtable discussion on 29 July 2024 at Luxent Hotel, Quezon City.

Dr. Joseph Christopher Rayos, chief of the Aquaculture Research and Development Division at the Department of Agriculture-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI), served as one of the panelists on Aquatic Products, Inputs, and Services.

During the discussion, Dr. Rayos highlighted the institute’s ongoing initiatives in aquaculture, particularly focusing on projects under the Technology Business Incubation (TBI) program. This program aims to facilitate the transfer and commercialization of mature, research-based fisheries and aquaculture technologies, aligning with the DA’s goals to increase productivity and income of fisherfolk and the entire fishery sector. Among the examples he cited were TBI on freshwater ornamental fish, maliputo, and oyster culture, among others.

Joining Dr. Rayos in the panel were NAST Academicians Gisela Concepcion and Marco Nemesio Montaño, Alfredo Pedrosa II of the Seaweeds Industry Association of the Philippines, and Rosalind Wee of W Hydrocolloids Inc. The session was moderated by Academician Dr. Mudjekeewis Santos, Scientist V of NFRDI.

The “Roundtable Discussion on Rapid Horizon Scanning of Major Agricultural Products,

Inputs, and Services of the Philippines” aimed to engage national government agencies, industries, and academe in identifying new agricultural products for export and their potential in improving the economy and livelihood of Filipino farmers/fishers. It also sought to explore market access, competitiveness, and sustainability of new and existing agricultural export products. ### (Rita dela Cruz)