SEAFDEC-AQD, the aquaculture research arm of the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center, held a forum featuring technical presentations on new aquaculture technologies, farming practices, and industry initiatives for farmers and guests from across Western Visayas.
Held as part of SEAFDEC-AQD’s 53rd anniversary celebration, the Farmers’ Forum gathered members of the aquaculture community to discuss research-based innovations and practices aimed at advancing sustainable aquaculture development.
Opening the forum, Dr. Dan D. Baliao, SEAFDEC-AQD chief, highlighted the importance of knowledge-sharing in bringing scientific advancements closer to farming communities, reinforcing the department’s commitment to a productive and sustainable aquaculture industry. He then welcomed participants to technical presentations covering key areas of aquaculture development.
The lecture sessions covered feed production, seaweed farming technologies, good aquaculture practices, and industry standards for hatcheries and grow-out farms.
Recognizing the importance of nutrition in aquaculture production, Joseph B. Biñas, head of SEAFDEC-AQD’s Feed Mill Unit, explained that every feed pellet is developed through careful research and formulation, considering the nutritional requirements of different species and their life stages when creating feeds suited to their needs.
“Every species, whether it’s a fish or whatever, even animals, have different nutritional requirements. Even if it’s the same species, different life stages require different requirements,” he said.
SEAFDEC-AQD also offers training courses on fish nutrition and feed development to help participants understand feed formulation and aquaculture nutrition.
Meanwhile, Joseph P. Faisan Jr., head of SEAFDEC-AQD’s Seaweeds Commodity Unit, discussed the department’s micropropagation technology for seaweeds, focusing on the development of healthier planting materials through laboratory-based methods before their application in farming.
To complement discussions on production technologies, the forum also highlighted practices that promote efficient and sustainable aquaculture operations. Training and Information Division Head Dr. Edgar A. Amar discussed Good Aquaculture Practices for grow-out farming, highlighting practices that promote healthier stocks, improved productivity, and sustainable farm operations.
The forum concluded with Dr. Donnaciel V. Panado, DMV DA-BFAR VI, who discussed the certification and registration process for aquaculture hatcheries and grow-out farms, emphasizing their role in promoting quality assurance, biosecurity, and sustainable aquaculture practices.Jeanne Rose Sazon, WVSU-COC intern/IMT
