CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Filipino scientists, researchers, and fish farmers are working together to ensure that the country’s tilapia industry continues to thrive through research-driven innovation and technology adoption.
During the October 21-23 Tilapia FIESTA in Pampanga, Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) Deputy Executive Director Dr. Melvin B. Carlos outlined several breakthrough technologies developed under the Tilapia Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) to boost productivity and sustainability.
“Among the technologies already developed under the ISP include aqua-shade technology during warm months to increase seed production, DNA-based detection kits of bacterial pathogens that can help prevent possible disease outbreaks in tilapia, and the development of infrastructure to house grow-out culture of tilapia in Central Luzon,” Carlos explained.
He also cited research on onion waste transformed into prebiotics and probiotics, coconut oil as bioactive feed additives, and the YY super male technology, all designed to improve fish growth and survival rates.
Beyond production, Carlos highlighted innovations in value-adding and product diversification.
“Tilapia ice cream, tilapia malunggay longganisa, smoked tilapia, and dried fish soup mix are among the technologies that enhance the appreciation of tilapia,” he said.
He emphasized that the true goal of innovation is not just technology generation but its utilization by farmers and processors, achieved through training and mentoring.
“We need to train our fisherfolk to help increase their income. Increasing awareness of tilapia helps to increase production, which ultimately provides for increasing consumption,” Carlos said.
For his part, PhilTilapia President Florendo Juico Jr. shared that the integration of science-based technologies into farm operations has transformed the way tilapia growers manage production.
“We have robust, better growth, and saline breeds which increase profitability,” Juico said.
He also noted that floating nursery systems have also helped farmers adapt to changes brought about by flooding and water management projects.
“We treat our ponds like lakes now. But we need researchers like you,” he said.
Juico credited DOST-PCAARRD, Central Luzon State University, and partner agencies for providing practical solutions that respond to the real-world needs of farmers.
“For more than 20 years of tilapia fish farming, it is only now that I can feel the help of the government through the different departments and agencies,” he said.
Through sustained partnerships among DOST, higher education institutions, regional consortia, and industry stakeholders, the Tilapia FIESTA underscored how science can directly improve livelihoods, ensure food security, and strengthen the country’s ‘blue economy.’
DOST-PCAARRD Applied Communication Division Director Marita Carlos said FIESTA serves as the bridge between scientists and communities.
“Since 2011, FIESTA has been our primary technology promotion platform leading to the adoption and commercialization of new technologies. It connects technology generators to adopters and investors—a critical aspect of technology transfer that drives success for all,” she cited.
The director added that as the country continues to rely on tilapia as an affordable and nutritious staple, the innovations showcased during the Tilapia FIESTA signal a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable aquaculture future for the Philippines.
DOST PHOTO
