The Mariano Marcos State University–College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (MMSU-CASAT) received two prestigious national awards from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) for its outstanding contributions to the country’s fisheries sector.

MMSU-CASAT was conferred the Gawad Pasasalamat Award under the CY 2025 National Gawad Parangal sa mga Kabalikat ng Pangisdaan at Yamang Tubig for its exceptional contributions in advancing fisheries education, research, and extension programs that empower fisherfolk, promote fisheries development, and advocate the sustainable use of aquatic resources.

In addition, the college was recognized as the Best State University and College (SUC) Fisheries Scholarship Program (FSP) Implementer in Region I for its unwavering support, active collaboration, and remarkable commitment to BFAR’s Scholarship Program. The recognition underscores MMSU-CASAT’s efforts in producing competent fisheries professionals who contribute to the sustainable growth of the sector.

The awards were formally presented on September 19, during the closing program of the 62nd Fish Conservation Week Celebration at the Celestial Ballroom, Luxent Hotel, Quezon City.

Prof. Pilar Carolyn Pascual, OIC-Dean of MMSU-CASAT, and Prof. Marjorie Ramos, Chairperson of the Fisheries Department, accepted the award on behalf of the university.

“This award affirms our enduring commitment to sustainable fisheries and community empowerment. We dedicate this honor to our fisherfolk partners, stakeholders, students, and the entire MMSU community who continue to champion innovations for the aquatic sciences sector,” said Prof. Pascual.

BFAR lauded MMSU-CASAT for its strong partnership with government and industry stakeholders, citing its contributions to technology development, livelihood enhancement, environmental stewardship, and fisheries education.

These milestones reaffirm MMSU-CASAT’s standing as a premier institution in fisheries and aquatic sciences, recognized by the Commission on Higher Education’s National University of Fisheries Education System (CHED-NAFES) as the National University of Fisheries for its leadership in education, research, and extension that continue to advance the country’s fisheries sector.

Themed, “Pangisdaang Masagana, Sapat na Isda sa Bawat Pamilya,” BFAR celebrates the Fish Conservation Week annually to recognize academic institutions in advancing sustainable management of fisheries and aquatic resources, and promoting responsible and science-based fishing practices.

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