The National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI), an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and fishery arm for research and development (R&D) of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) will hold the 11^th Fisheries Scientific Conference (Fish SciCon) on September 24-25, 2025 at Royce Hotel, Clark Freeport, Pampanga.

This year’s theme, “From Research to Application: Transforming Fisheries for a Productive and Sustainable Future,” emphasizes turning scientific knowledge into practical solutions. It highlights how technologies and science-based policies can boost productivity, ensure sustainability, and strengthen collaboration among researchers, policymakers, industry, and fishing communities to build a resilient fisheries sector that supports livelihoods, food security, and marine ecosystems.

The two-day event will feature back-to-back presentations showcasing the science-policy interface, demonstrating how NFRDI’s research outputs inform policy recommendations that have been translated into ordinances and regulations.

A major highlight will be the launching of NFRDI’s latest knowledge products, including, five training modules on oyster, mangrove crab, milkfish, tilapia in brackishwater, and tilapia in freshwater; a handbook on fishing gears; and seven posters on dominant species and fishing gears in CALABARZON.

NFRDI will have an exhibit featuring its research programs and initiatives, including the Knowledge Products Repository, National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP), Aquabiz School – Technology Business Incubation (ABS-TBI), Fishery Postharvest, Technology Innovation and Safety Program (PHSafe), Development of Salt Industry Project (DSIP), and Sardinella lemuru R&D Initiatives.

In addition, about 50 scientific posters will be exhibited across four categories: capture fisheries, aquaculture, postharvest, and biotechnology. Complementing this is the Spotlight Competition, an oral presentation contest for theses and dissertations of BFAR Fisheries Scholarship Program recipients. Introduced in 2018, the competition has since become a vital part of Fish SciCon, offering young scientists a platform to showcase their research, exchange ideas, and actively engage with the scientific community.

Participants can also earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits approved by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC): 2.5 points for the plenary session and 1.50 points for each parallel session (aquaculture, fisheries postharvest, capture fisheries, and cross-cutting theme).

Held every two years, the Fish SciCon serves as NFRDI’s flagship platform for knowledge exchange in fisheries research. It brings together scientists, students, professionals, and stakeholders to share innovations and best practices aimed at strengthening food security and advancing sustainable fisheries. ### (Rita dela Cruz)