Guimaras State University-Baterna Campus, in collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Provincial Office for Agricultural Services (POAS), conducted a training and demonstration event on milkfish nursery production, locally known as “Garungan,” on September 20, 2023, at the GSU Multi-Crop Pond in Cabano, San Lorenzo. The event aimed to support the Sustainable Development Goal of “Zero Hunger” by providing sustainable livelihood support to local fish farmers.

The program began with a welcome address by Dr. Julius T. Vergara, Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences, who emphasized the importance of collaboration among organizations in advancing the region’s agricultural and fisheries sectors. Mr. Mateo C. Doyola, Jr., OIC-PFO of Guimaras, highlighted the event’s timing with Fish Conservation Week, while Mr. Ramon Maranon, Chair of the Provincial Aquaculture Fisheries Council (PAFC), shared upcoming plans and activities.

Experts from BFAR-6 delivered technical presentations on various aspects of Garungan production, including milkfish nursery management, pond preparation, water quality management, feeding and nutrition, and disease prevention. Participants engaged in hands-on activities at the GSU Multi-Crop Pond, practicing feeding techniques and water quality monitoring.

The event showcased best practices in milkfish nursery operations, equipping local operators with sustainable aquaculture techniques. By enhancing the skills and knowledge of local stakeholders, the initiative aims to foster growth in Guimaras’s milkfish industry and improve the livelihoods of fish farmers in the province.