The Department of Agriculture – National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) welcomed 16 BS Biology students who are currently undergoing internship at the DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – National Capital Region (BFAR-NCR) for a hands-on laboratory exposure at its Integrated Research Laboratory (IRL) on July 9, 2025.

The interns, comprising 10 students from Far Eastern University, four from University of the Philippines, and two from Bulacan State University, visited the IRL to enhance their exposure to real-world laboratory operations and fisheries research activities.

During the visit, Kishiro Miguel Leyritana and Al Francis Anor of NFRDI-IRL provided an overview of the laboratory’s services, highlighting key research initiatives and ongoing projects. The students were then guided through the laboratory facilities, where they were introduced to various equipment and scientific procedures relevant to fisheries science.

Also joining the activity was Robert Timothy Reyes of the Fisheries Resource Management Section of BFAR-NCR, a former NFRDI intern, serving as a testament to the value of such experiential learning programs.

This initiative is part of NFRDI’s Students’ Training Support (STrainS) program, led by the Training Division, which provides students with hands-on experience in research, laboratory work, and public service, helping shape future professionals in the field of fisheries and aquatic science. ### (Joey Caser)