The Department of Agriculture–National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI), through the Philippine Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency (FISHCORE) Project under FishCRRM Subcomponent 1.2 on Carrying Capacity, conducted a three-day theoretical training titled “Strengthening Skills on Carrying Capacity Assessment: Training on Methods and Tools for Conducting Carrying Capacity Studies” from April 14 to 17, 2026, at Sequoia Hotel Manila Bay in Parañaque City.
The training gathered technical personnel from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) regional offices, BFAR-National Mariculture Center, BFAR-Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, BFAR-National Project Management Office, and project personnel from NFRDI. The activity aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills in assessing the production carrying capacity of finfish aquaculture areas.
Dr. Mudjekeewis Santos, Scientist V and lead of FishCRRM 1.2 under the NFRDI FISHCORE Project, welcomed the participants and emphasized the significance of strengthening the technical capacities of BFAR personnel in conducting carrying capacity studies. He noted that such initiatives directly support the development of science-based aquaculture plans under the project.
In a recorded message, BFAR Assistant Director Isidro Velayo Jr. highlighted the importance of collective action in managing mariculture zones through science-driven approaches.
“What we are having today and in the coming days is a significant step in reinforcing our collective capacity to manage our mariculture areas through science-based approaches,” Velayo said, adding that fisheries programs must remain responsive to the evolving needs of the sector.
NFRDI Executive Director Dr. Maria Theresa Mutia also commended the strong turnout of participants and underscored the growing importance of mariculture amid the challenges facing capture fisheries.
“Ang pag-asa natin ay ang mariculture areas, that is why we need to conduct assessments of these areas to ensure its productivity and sustainability,” Mutia said.
Project Leader Myleen Magistrado opened the technical sessions by stressing the need for scientific approaches in promoting sustainable aquaculture practices and informed decision-making. She also provided an overview of carrying capacity assessment for finfish aquaculture and its relevance to fisheries and aquaculture management.
A series of lectures followed, led by subject matter experts from NFRDI. Cristan Joy Campo discussed the key concepts, types, and introduction to carrying capacity assessment. Renalyne Acosta and Clarck Adrian Abao tackled water and sediment quality, focusing on environmental parameters, sampling procedures, and analytical techniques for accurate data gathering.
Marvin Tobias introduced the use of Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers for current profiling and demonstrated their role in measuring water movement. Jennifer Poniente then discussed bathymetric assessment and Geographic Information Systems, highlighting the value of spatial analysis in interpreting results. The sessions concluded with Campo’s lecture on the formula for computing production carrying capacity, integrating the various topics into a unified assessment methodology.
Carrying capacity assessment plays a crucial role in ensuring sustainable aquaculture development while protecting environmental integrity. The training served as an important platform for knowledge sharing and capacity building among BFAR and NFRDI personnel, further reinforcing NFRDI’s commitment to science-based fisheries management and the sustainable use of the country’s aquatic resources. ### (Jerony Bruto)