In a bid to strengthen sustainable aquaculture and support local fish production, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Bicol, in partnership with Partido State University (ParSU), held a ceremonial dispersal of Improved Brackishwater Enhanced Selected Tilapia (iBEST) breeders on May 2 at the College of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (CFMS) in Sagñay, Camarines Sur.
Two strains of iBEST breeders—1,000 Line 1 and 1,000 Line 2—were dispersed at the university’s wet laboratory. The collaborative effort aims to boost local fish production, reduce dependency on commercial hatcheries, and promote science-based practices in tilapia farming.
BFAR 5 Regional Director Ariel U. Pioquinto, ParSU President Dr. Arnel B. Zarcedo, CFMS Dean Dr. Raul G. Bradecina, and Atty. Nilo B. Consuelo, Chief of the Fisheries Production and Support Services Division, delivered messages of support and commitment during the program. They emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and academic institutions in advancing science-based aquaculture, empowering local communities, and ensuring long-term food security.
This partnership also highlighted the vital role of research, innovation, and capacity-building in achieving sustainable fisheries development.
Source: BFAR Bikol