The Department of Agriculture–National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) took part in “PANDAYAN 2026: Building AI Literacy and Reinforcing Communication Crisis Management for DA-BFAR Information Officers,” held on August 10–14, 2026, in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

Representing DA-NFRDI, Training Division-Education Section Chief Cyrenes Moncawe joined information officers to strengthen the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and improve communication during crisis situations. The activity was organized by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), through its Information and Fisherfolk Coordination Unit (IFCU).

The training covered AI literacy, ethical and accountable use of AI, prompt development, verification and fact-checking, and crisis communication management. Ray Daniel Peralta of the Development Academy of the Philippines–Center for Strategic Futures led the AI literacy sessions, while Dr. Gregg Lloren of the University of the Philippines Cebu handled the communication crisis management sessions.

One workshop output was a communication room simulation in which participants were grouped into seven regions and assigned different crisis scenarios. The exercise required the groups to work under time pressure, evaluate available information, coordinate their response, and prepare communication materials for the public.

For the final simulation, participants prepared a press brief on a fish-kill issue that had recently circulated online. Working from the exercise scenario, they developed the key information needed for an official BFAR statement, emphasizing verified facts, clear public guidance, timely updates, and avoiding speculation while technical validation was underway.

NFRDI’s participation reflects its continuing support for effective science communication and responsible public engagement, particularly when research-based information is needed to help authorities and communities respond to fisheries concerns. ### (Cyrenes Moncawe)