The Department of Agriculture-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) strengthened its partnership with the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) to advance sustainable fisheries and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water, during the 2nd International Conference on UN SDGs and Social Innovation (ICUNSSI) held at the MSU-IIT Tibanga Campus on September 24-25, 2026.

With the theme “Transforming Ideas into Impact: Achieving SDGs as Pathways to a Resilient World,” the two-day conference brought together academicians, scientists, researchers, educators, students, and other stakeholders to exchange knowledge and discuss practical approaches to advancing the SDGs and building resilient communities.

NFRDI Executive Director Dr. Maria Theresa Mutia served as one of the plenary speakers, highlighting the Institute’s role in advancing SDG 14 by bridging marine science, small-scale fisheries technologies, and social innovation.

Mutia highlighted NFRDI’s efforts to translate scientific evidence into policy guidance and transform technological innovations into socially relevant solutions. Among the programs and initiatives she discussed were the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP), Hatchery Production (HatchPro), Mariculture and other Aquafarming Systems Research Innovations for Development Program (MARIDeP), Fishery Postharvest, Technology Innovation and Safety (PHSafe), AquaBiz School–Technology Business Incubation (ABS-TBI), and Technology and Knowledge Promotion (TechKnowPro), among others.

“NFRDI remains committed to transforming scientific knowledge into responsive policies, practical technologies, and measurable benefits. Together, let us ensure that our ocean, seas, and aquatic resources remain productive, resilient, and capable of supporting the present and future generations,” Mutia said.

The Institute also showcased its research, programs, projects, and knowledge products through an exhibit booth, where NFRDI personnel engaged with conference participants and responded to inquiries. The booth featured the NFRDI Knowledge Products Repository or “NFRDI Library,” the Institute’s official online catalog and library website, along with various Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials.

Among the featured publications were NFRDI’s regular publications, namely: FiSearch, official quarterly publication, and The Philippine Journal of Fisheries, official semi-annual, open-access, peer-reviewed journal. The materials provided conference participants and members of the academic community with information on the Institute’s fisheries research and development initiatives.

The conference also formalized the partnership between NFRDI and MSU-IIT through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Executive Director Mutia signed on behalf of NFRDI, while MSU-IIT Chancellor Prof. Alizedney Ditucalan represented the university.

Through its participation in ICUNSSI 2026 and its partnership with MSU-IIT, NFRDI continues to strengthen collaboration with academic institutions and other stakeholders in advancing science-based solutions, promoting sustainable fisheries, and contributing to the achievement of the UN SDGs. ### (Cherrys Delos Reyes)