The Central Luzon State University (CLSU) through its Freshwater Aquaculture Center (FAC), in partnership with Youmanitarian International through its farm member, Sesep's Farm—the largest crayfish hatchery in the Philippines, has initiated research focusing on the culture and propagation of the Australian Redclaw Crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus).
The first roundtable discussion was conducted on March 18, 2025, at the FAC Accreditation Room as a follow-up to the existing Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the two parties on joint research and publication initiatives.
The event brought together personnel from both CLSU and Youmanitarian International, including Dr. Emmanuel Vera-Cruz, Vice President for Research and Extension; Dr. Karl Marx Quiazon, FAC Director; Dr. Rea Mae Templonuevo, Ms. Julieta Holasca, Mr. Aries Paul Padron; Assoc. Prof. Ar-Jay Aquino, Mr. Clarence Luther S. Bulanadi, Youmanitarian International Founder and Executive Director, and Mr. Joseph “SESEP” Miranda, Sesep Farm Founder and Owner. Also in attendance was Dr. Tereso A. Abella, former CLSU President and current Adviser of Youmanitarian International.
This initiative will explore optimal farming techniques under Philippine conditions, assess environmental impacts, and determine economic viability to benefit local farmers and aquaculture entrepreneurs. It also aims to contribute valuable scientific insights into the interactions between Australian Redclaw Crayfish populations and rice field environments, particularly about their potential ecological and agricultural implications.
University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella showed full support for the said initiative and recognized its potential to advance aquaculture technology, providing sustainable solutions for integrating crayfish culture into Philippine agricultural systems.
To support the initiative, Sesep’s Farm committed to providing 20,000 crayfish for research purposes. Additionally, further studies and trials are scheduled in the coming months to refine methodologies and unlock the full potential of crayfish farming in the country. The collaboration between CLSU and Youmanitarian International indeed underscores their shared commitment to scientific research and sustainable agricultural development.
