The DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 2 (DA-BFAR 2) officially welcomed 67 Bachelor of Science in Fisheries students from Cagayan State University – Aparri Campus as they begin their On-the-Job Training (OJT) in its various facilities.

The students were deployed to different Technology Outreach Stations, as well as the Regional and Provincial Offices of BFAR 2, where they are expected to gain practical knowledge and develop technical competencies essential for future fisheries professionals.

The OJT program provides the students with real-world exposure to fisheries operations, aquaculture management, resource conservation, and administrative processes. By engaging in hands-on tasks and fieldwork, the students will be better equipped to meet the challenges of the fisheries industry.

Dr. Quirino Pascua, Dean of the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Science, and Prof. Salvador Miranda, the OJT Coordinator—both alumni of BFAR’s Fisheries Scholarship Program—expressed their deep appreciation to DA-BFAR 2 for accommodating the students. “This training is a critical part of the students’ academic journey. We are thankful to BFAR for continuously supporting the development of future fisheries professionals,” Dr. Pascua remarked.

Monitoring the deployment were key personnel including Dr. Emma L. Ballad, Officer-in-Charge of the Finance and Administrative Section; Ms. Lilybeth Adriosula, Human Resource Management Unit Training Coordinator; along with the Farm Managers and staff from various stations.

Dr. Ballad expressed the agency’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of fisheries experts. “Our facilities serve not just as centers of innovation, but also as training grounds for students to experience the real demands and responsibilities of the profession,” she said.

The partnership between CSU Aparri and DA-BFAR 2 continues to play a vital role in shaping skilled, responsible, and competent fisheries graduates who can contribute meaningfully to the sector’s sustainable development.