CLSU Equips Retiring Philippine Army Personnel with Aquaculture Training
Fostering the livelihood transition of retiring military personnel, the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) through its Freshwater Aquaculture Center (FAC), conducted a two-day aquaculture training under the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Seminar on Fish Farming and Business for the Light Reaction Regiment (LRR) of the Philippine Army (PA). This was initiated by Personnel Officer Maj. Melvin Allan T. Medrano (INF) PA, Assistant Personnel Officer Capt. Jeff C. Visaya (INF) PA, and TSg. Noly V. Cailing (AGS) PA. Thirty-five (35) retiring and active personnel from LRR joined the said training held on March 18-19, 2025 at Damian Hall, LRR, PA in Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija, and in CLSU FAC, Science City of Munoz, respectively. Experts from the FAC and College of Fisheries (CF) delivered a series of lectures on the basics of aquaculture and fish culture. Dr. Alvin T. Reyes, Mr. Eddie Boy T. Jimenez, Asst. Professor Lara Millen S. Pengson led the discussions, covering topics such as aquaculture principles, tilapia farming, and catfish production. The interactive lectures provided participants with insights into fish farming operations, including breeding techniques and pond management. Practical training sessions were also held at FAC where participants were welcomed by the Center Director and Catfish Technical Expert, Dr. Karl Marx A. Quiazon, and led them to the Catfish Facility. Mr. Ruel E. Gabiles conducted a hands-on demonstration on the induced spawning of catfish, giving the participants valuable skills in fish breeding techniques. Following the catfish session, Ms. Ave Joy C. Ramos provided practical training on tilapia grow-out, where the participants learned the importance of pond fertilization, proper handling and feeding, and the different equipment used in pond monitoring, among others. The training highlights the importance of providing retiring military personnel with practical skills and livelihood opportunities. By equipping them with aquaculture knowledge, the program aims to empower former personnel with the tools they need to establish their fish farming ventures for their post-military careers. #LifeBelowWater #SievingForExecellence