Dr. Wilfredo H. Uy and Dr. Emmylou A. Emperador of the ACIAR Sandfish Project, both esteemed faculty researchers of Mindanao State University at Naawan, attended the Asian-Pacific Aquaculture 2024 conference held in Surabaya, Indonesia from July 2-5, 2024. This prestigious international event, themed “Aquaculture – Driving the Blue Economy,” featured technical sessions and industry exhibits of the newest technology from around the world

Dr. Emmylou A. Emperador presented her paper titled “Family-based Sandfish Farming: The Case in Northern Mindanao, Philippines.” Her research highlights the innovative approach of involving local families in sandfish farming, demonstrating the socio-economic benefits and sustainable practices that can be achieved through community participation. Her study emphasized the potential of family-based farming to enhance local livelihoods while contributing to the sustainable management of marine resources. 

Dr. Wilfredo H. Uy also presented his study, “Growth Performance of Sandfish Holothuria scabra (Jaeger 1833) in a Community Managed Nursery System in Northern Mindanao, Philippines.”This study focused on the growth rates and overall health of sandfish in a nursery system managed by the local community. The findings from this study provide valuable insights into the viability of community-managed nurseries as a sustainable method for sandfish aquaculture, which can lead to enhanced economic opportunities for local communities.

The event provided an excellent opportunity for Dr. Uy and Dr. Emperador to meet the entire team of the ACIAR-funded Sandfish Project, including representatives from University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI), Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC), Guiuan Development Foundation, Inc.(GDFI), Research Institute for Aquaculture No. 3 (RIA3 ) of Vietnam, and University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) of Australia. 

From hosting the International Conference on Responsible Fisheries and Sustainable Aquaculture (ICORFASA 2024) to participating in Asian-Pacific Aquaculture 2024, MSUN continues to lead in aquaculture research, contributing to global sustainable practices and innovative solutions. The knowledge and experience gained through these conferences will surely enhance the university’s research capabilities and contributions to the aquaculture industry.