As part of the Manggahan Festival 2023 celebrations, the Guimaras State University College of Agricultural Sciences (GSU CAgS), in partnership with the Provincial Office for Agricultural Services, held an Agri-Fishery Learning Session and Utilization event on May 21, 2023. The event took place at the Agri-Fishery and Eco-Tourism Expo at the Provincial Capitol Grounds, inviting selected farmers and GSU CAgS students eager to learn about advancements in agriculture and aquaculture.

The session featured valuable insights from Prof. Gerald Sheo Thon Gamo, who presented on modified extensive milkfish culture. Prof. Gamo highlighted the benefits of this approach over traditional methods, particularly in terms of increased return on investment, which captured the interest of local farmers looking to enhance their aquaculture practices.

Dr. Rhea Joy D. Flora, a prominent researcher in mango and tropical fruit cultivation, also addressed the audience. She shared recent developments from the Mango and Tropical Fruits Research Center, detailing innovative technologies and research findings that could improve productivity for mango farmers. Dr. Flora encouraged the participants to consider adopting these advanced techniques to optimize their farming outcomes.

The event concluded with an engaging open forum, where participants were able to ask questions and discuss practical applications of the topics presented. Dr. Flora and Prof. Gamo answered queries, providing tailored advice to farmers and students alike.

This learning session not only celebrated Guimaras’ agricultural heritage but also underscored GSU CAgS’s commitment to equipping the local community with knowledge to advance in agri-fishery practices essential for the attainment of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 8 – Decent Work and Economic Work.