Youth-Led Fisheries Seminar inspires Environmental Action in Lanao del Sur

Ditsa-an Ramain, Lanao del Sur (July 15, 2026) — At Adiong Memorial State College, the Fisheries Resource Management Awareness Seminar became more than just a lecture series; it transformed into a vibrant exchange of ideas, creativity, and commitment to sustainability. Organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR), the event gathered students, aquaculturists, and community leaders to confront pressing challenges in fisheries and environmental stewardship.

The day began with a heartfelt welcome from Sir Jahirun S. Mungkon, Program Head of the Department of Fisheries, who encouraged participants to embrace their role as future stewards of natural resources. His words set a tone of optimism and responsibility. Dean Sohryah A. Jamel followed with a message of unwavering support, reminding the youth that their voices and actions are vital in shaping sustainable communities.

Inspiring reflections continued with Muhammad Yusoph L. Watamama, Supervising Aquaculturist, who underscored the urgency of protecting fisheries resources. His call to action resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom were students eager to apply their learning to real-world challenges.

The seminar’s resource speakers, Alimoddin P. Macodi and Bairanie L. Bantuas, enriched the program with practical insights on sustainable fisheries management. Their expertise provided participants with tools to think critically about issues such as illegal fishing, water pollution, and waste disposal. Closing the seminar, Norjanah B. Oma, JD, delivered motivating remarks while serving as Master of Ceremony, leaving the audience with a sense of empowerment and responsibility.

Beyond the speeches, the seminar came alive through youth-led group activities. Students from Mindanao State University–Marawi City collaborated to identify local environmental problems and propose solutions. Their posters and presentations tackled issues like illegal fishing and water pollution, offering creative responses such as alternative livelihood programs, community education, proper waste disposal, regular clean-up drives, and enforcement of environmental laws.

One group’s poster boldly declared: “Illegal fishing destroys our future. Education and livelihood alternatives can save it.” Another team emphasized water pollution, sketching plastics and chemicals to illustrate the dangers, while proposing community clean-ups and stricter ordinances. These visual presentations captured both the urgency of the problems and the creativity of the youth in addressing them.

The seminar’s impact was evident in the reflections shared by participants. “Your dedication to educating and empowering future fisheries professionals has inspired us to remain committed to the sustainable management of our fisheries resources,” one student remarked, echoing the collective sentiment of the group.

With strong institutional support from MAFAR and the active involvement of young leaders, the seminar marked a significant step toward building resilient communities that value and protect their natural resources. It was not just a seminar—it was a movement, reminding everyone that sustainability begins with awareness, collaboration, and action.

#LanaodelSur #DitsaanRamain #MAFAR #MSUMarawi #SustainableFisheries

#FisheriesManagement #EndIllegalFishing #BeatWaterPollution #EnvironmentalStewardship

#YouthLedAction #FutureStewards #AwarenessToAction

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