BFAR - National Freshwater Technology Center

20/08/2026

🌧️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝟭 (𝗔𝘂𝗴. 𝟭𝟳–𝟮𝟬, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲) 🌧️
The Freshwater Aquaculture Technology Training III: Training of Trainers on Breeding, Nursery, and Grow-out Management of African Catfish with Post-Harvest pushed through at the CLSU Compound, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija.

Against the odds, our dedicated training staff and resource persons, as well as participants showed remarkable commitment—arriving at the training hall and practicum areas even under strong rains and declaration of alternative work arrangement by the President. Their perseverance ensured that lectures, hands-on hatchery sessions, and post-harvest practicums were completed as planned.

💡 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗱:
In-depth lectures on catfish biology, hatchery, nursery, and culture management.
Practicum on induced spawning, egg fertilization, hatchery operations, and disease management.
Post-harvest technology and value-adding activities (fillet, smoking, dumplings, patties, etc.).
Workshops and group outputs showcasing learnings, competencies, and practical applications.

This training not only enhanced technical knowledge but also demonstrated the resilience and dedication of the fisheries community in Luzon. Truly, rain or shine, the pursuit of sustainable aquaculture continues! 🌊🐟

07/08/2026

𝗡𝗙𝗧𝗖 𝗢𝗝𝗧 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲: 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀, 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀

This year, the National Freshwater Technology Center (NFTC) proudly welcomed a diverse group of student interns from universities and colleges across the country. Their on-the-job training was more than just a requirement—it became a transformative journey into the world of freshwater aquaculture.

From tilapia broodstock development and hatchery management of Tilapia, Catfish, Carp, Giant Freshwater Prawn, Crayfish, Giant Gourami to organic aquaculture systems like aquaponics, vermiculture, interns immersed themselves in hands-on learning. They explored fish health and water quality management, learned post-harvest processing and handling, and even engaged in aquaculture engineering—designing tanks and ponds that reflect the science and art of sustainable fisheries.

They spent the whole day immersed in their stations applying technologies such as cryopreservation of tilapia germplasm, intensive hatchery automation, and natural food culture, except Thursday and Friday afternoons were dedicated to technical lectures led by NFTC experts. These sessions deepened their understanding of aquaculture innovations and connected theory with practice.

Their journey was not without challenges—transitioning from classroom theories to the realities of aquaculture demanded adaptability. Tasks such as handling live fish stocks, monitoring and managing water quality, and serving as vital manpower in production systems tested their patience and resilience. Yet, these very challenges became opportunities for growth, shaping them into resourceful problem-solvers equipped with practical skills and the confidence to contribute meaningfully to the future of fisheries and aquatic resources.

At the end of their training, interns presented their outputs: technical skills gained, problems encountered, and solutions proposed.

There are total of 14 Universities (98 students) who participated in the NFTC Training program through OJT and was formally recognized through an internship agreement as required by CHED, ensuring that their efforts contribute meaningfully to their academic and professional growth
• Catanduanes State University–Virac, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — March 1–31 (3 trainees)
• Catanduanes State University–Virac, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — April 27-May 22 (3 trainees)
• Pampanga State University, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — April 27–May 12 (10 trainees)
• Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — May 4-June16 (7 trainees)
• Central Luzon State University, Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineer — May 4-June2 (5 trainees)
• Bataan Peninsula State University–Orani Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — May 11-June 15 (6 trainees)
• University of Northern Philippines, Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology — May 11-June 4 (7 trainees)
• Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State Colleg, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — May 18-June 10 (5 trainees)
• Saint Louis University, Bachelor of Science in Medical Biology — June 8-July 6 (9 trainees)
• Isabela State University–Echague Bachelor of Science in Biology — June 8-July 17 (5 trainees)
• Aurora State College of Technology, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — June 8-July 20 (7 trainees)
• Sorsogon State University, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — June 15-July 24 (4 trainees)
• University of Camarines Norte, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — June 15-July 24 (10 trainees)
• Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — June 26-July 31 (11 trainees)
• Cavite State University, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries — July 3-August 3 (6 trainees)

The NFTC OJT program continues to be a bridge between classroom learning and real-world application—empowering the next generation of aquaculture professionals to uphold its vision.

05/08/2026

𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗦𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿

This week’s session was made even more engaging with the participation of the Capintalan Animal Raiser Association, based in Capintalan, Carranglan, Nueva Ecija.

Topics covered included:

Tilapia Grow-Out: Best practices for pond management, feeding strategies, and market readiness.
Catfish Grow-Out: Techniques for maximizing survival rates, growth efficiency, and harvest quality.

04/08/2026

BFAR–NFTC Hosts Official Delegation from the Sultanate of Oman

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – National Freshwater Technology Center (BFAR–NFTC) warmly welcomed the official delegation from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources of the Sultanate of Oman on July 29, 2026, at the BFAR-NFTC, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija.

The Omani delegation was headed by Dr. Issa Bin Mohammed Al Farsi, Director of the Aquaculture Development Department of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, and was joined by Mr. Ahmed Abdulaziz Ghazal, Head of the Trade and Investment Section of the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Manila.

The visit served as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, providing the Omani delegation with first-hand insights into BFAR–NFTC's innovative freshwater aquaculture technologies, research initiatives, and best management practices aimed at promoting sustainable fisheries development.

A comprehensive briefing by Dr. Ma. Jodecel C. Danting, Center Chief of BFAR–NFTC, highlighting the Center's flagship programs, technology updates, and major accomplishments in freshwater aquaculture.

As part of the learning visit, the delegates toured several of the Center's banner technology stations, including the Tilapia Germplasm Bank, Improved Modified Intensive Tilapia Hatchery (i-MITH) in a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS), Artificial Incubation System, Catfish Hatchery and Nursery Production Facility, and Urban Aquaponics and Organic Feed Formulation. The technical presentations showcased BFAR–NFTC's continuing efforts to enhance fish seed production, strengthen food security, and advance climate-resilient and sustainable aquaculture technologies.

The activity reaffirmed BFAR's commitment to fostering international collaboration, strengthening partnerships, and sharing Philippine expertise in freshwater aquaculture with the global community.

03/08/2026

📢 𝑶𝑱𝑻 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑯𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒕 𝑵𝑭𝑻𝑪

Today, the final batch of On-the-Job Trainees from 𝗖𝗮𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 – 𝗕𝗦 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 concluded their internship at the Center by presenting their final outputs and learnings. Their presentations were evaluated by a panel composed of their mentors, who engaged the trainees with questions to ensure that the knowledge and skills gained during their stay were truly understood and applied.

This event follows last week’s completion of OJT programs from:
- 𝗜𝘀𝗮𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 – 𝗕𝗦 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆
- 𝗔𝘂𝗿𝗼𝗿𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 – 𝗕𝗦 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀
-𝗦𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗴𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 – 𝗕𝗦 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀
- 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗲 – 𝗕𝗦 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀

Each group successfully ended their internship by presenting their outputs and learnings, demonstrating the competencies they acquired during their training at the Center.

👏 We extend our congratulations to all the interns for their dedication and hard work, and our gratitude to the mentors and panelists who guided them throughout their journey.

24/07/2026

Facility Visit of 3rd Year BS Agribusiness students at Central Luzon State University.

24/07/2026

𝐁𝐅𝐀𝐑-𝐍𝐅𝐓𝐂 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐅𝐘 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐌𝐢𝐝-𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – National Freshwater Technology Center (BFAR-NFTC) successfully conducted its FY 2026 Mid-Year Performance Review and Assessment on July 20, 2026, bringing together section heads, focal persons, and personnel to evaluate the Center's accomplishments during the first half of the year and align priorities for the remaining months of FY 2026.

The activity commenced with an opening program, followed by Presentation of BFAR-NFTC Mid-Year Highlights of Accomplishments and Status of Fund Utilization by Dr. Michelle J. Pascua, Action Officer/Aquaculturist II, providing an overview of the Center's overall performance and financial utilization.

Representatives from the Fish Seed Production Section (Tilapia Production Unit and Other Species Production Unit), Fish Dispersal Unit, Tilapia Broodstock Development and Production Section, Crustacean and Organic Aquaculture Production Section, Fish Health Management and Nutrition Section, Aquaculture Training, Information and Extension Section, and Support Services Section presented their mid-year accomplishments, key performance indicators, challenges encountered, and corresponding catch-up plans, highlighting each unit's contributions toward achieving the Center's targets and ensuring the effective implementation of its programs and services.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Ma. Jodecel C. Danting, DFT, Center Chief, commended the dedication and hard work of all personnel and encouraged everyone to sustain their commitment toward achieving the Center's targets and delivering quality services to stakeholders in support of the fisheries and aquaculture sector.

The Mid-Year Performance Review serves as an important platform for assessing progress, identifying areas for improvement, and strengthening BFAR-NFTC's commitment to transparent, efficient, and results-oriented public service in advancing sustainable freshwater aquaculture in the country.

16/07/2026

The National Freshwater Technology Center successfully conducted a Special Skills Development Training on Freshwater Aquaculture Technologies for the Retirees of the Philippine Air Force who are based in Clark, Pampanga. The program commenced on Monday and concluded on Thursday with the awarding of Certificates of Training. The training provided comprehensive instruction on aquaculture technologies for Tilapia, Catfish, and Giant Freshwater Prawn, equipping participants with knowledge and skills that support sustainable livelihood opportunities.

In addition, the Center facilitated its regular Wednesday Seminar, attended by farmer groups from Cuyapo, Rizal, and Palayan in Nueva Ecija, as well as from Isabela. Discussions during this session focused on Tilapia and Catfish, while participants also expressed strong interest in Giant Freshwater Prawn and Crayfish. They are encouraged to return for subsequent Wednesday seminars to continue learning about other species and technologies.

These activities underscore NFTC’s commitment to advancing freshwater aquaculture practices and strengthening community capacity through continuous training and knowledge dissemination.

15/07/2026

𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 | 𝐀𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐅𝐀𝐑 - 𝐍𝐅𝐓𝐂 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐅𝐀𝐂𝐭

𝗞𝗮-𝗔𝗤𝘂𝗮, narito na ang ikalawang bahagi ng ating episode tungkol sa...

13/07/2026

Repost from Tarlac City Agriculture Office