Cebu City, Cebu – On April 30, 2024, the FISH Visayas Project Advisory Committee (PAC) convened for its third bi-annual assembly at the DOST Region VII, S&T Complex, Sudlon, Cebu City. The gathering served as a comprehensive review of the project’s accomplishments, upcoming plans, and points requiring decisions and agreements among the project implementers. Significantly, primary information and preparations for the upcoming Project Progress Review were discussed.

As the committee that steers the policy direction of the project, it is highly relevant that PAC members are well-informed to make decisions covering the interventions for Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.

The session convened with the presence of the following PAC members: Mr. Jay Yuvallos, President of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., and PAC Chair; Ms. Joy Lorena Segismar, CCCI Executive Director; Ms. Yvette Hope P. Labus, Project Manager and Philippine Resident Representative of AFOS Foundation; Mr. Mario Ruinata, OIC – Regional Director of the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region VII (DA-BFAR 7); Mr. Joel Clapano; and Engr. Jesus Zamora, Jr., Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology Region VII (DOST 7), along with Engr. Tristan Abando, PhD.

The collaborative efforts of the main project implementers during the session demonstrated a commitment to enhancing project management approaches for the FISH Visayas Project. The unanimous endorsement of project interventions and plans solidifies the committee’s dedication to executing a strategic roadmap, ensuring the sustained progress and positive impact of the FISH Visayas Project in the Central Visayas region.