AMSC Department of Fisheries Convenes Experts to Tackle Lake Lanao Fisheries Crisis Through Science and Culture

Brgy. Bagoaingud, Ditsa-an Ramain, LDS – Faculty, staff, and students of Adiong Memorial State College (AMSC) under FSH-PC-124 Seminar of the Department of Fisheries gathered yesterday, April 28, 2026, for a high-level seminar aimed at addressing the urgent decline of fisheries in Lake Lanao.

The event, titled "Seminar on Breakthrough Strategies for Reviving Lake Lanao Fisheries: Science, Culture, and Community," sought to merge technical expertise with local tradition to restore one of the region’s most vital natural resources.

The seminar operated under the theme Katao-an Ago Kalilintad (People and Peace): Breakthrough on Fisheries for Lake Lanao. Hosted by the Department of Fisheries within the College of Natural Resources and Sustainability (CNRS), the afternoon was dedicated to academic enrichment and professional development.

The program opened with remarks from Research Assistant Jaber E. Gumaga, RFP, followed by a formal message from Dr. Sherifa Rohannie K. Adiong, President of AMSC. Dr. Adiong emphasized the institution's steadfast commitment to fostering "research-driven environments" and maintaining academic excellence to solve regional environmental challenges.

The focal point of the seminar was a keynote lecture by Prof. Jhumar O. Jamis, MSc., RFP, an invited expert returning for his second engagement as a guest lecturer at the State College. Prof. Jamis presented a sobering look at the state of Lake Lanao’s biodiversity, specifically focusing on Cyprinids, the lake’s native fish species.

Once common and culturally significant, species such as the Tumba, Sirung, and Lindog are now facing a dire future. Prof. Jamis warned that these fishes, which are essential for ecological balance and the local economy, are now rare, declining, or potentially extinct.

The lecture identified four primary threats driving this biodiversity crisis: 1.) Overfishing; 2.) Habitat degradation; 3.) Pollution and 4.) Introduction of invasive species.

A core objective of the seminar was to explore solutions that are not only science-based but also deeply rooted in cultural practices. He argued that the revival of the fisheries depends on bridging technical research with the values of the local community.

Furthermore, the presentation highlighted the pivotal role of students in this environmental movement, encouraging the next generation of researchers to take an active part in the lake’s revival.

During a lively Open Forum, students engaged with the speakers to bridge the gap between "theoretical knowledge and practical application".

In recognition of his expertise, Prof. Jahirun S. Mungkon and school officials presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Prof. Jamis.

One student attendee remarked that such seminars are "vital for our growth as researchers and practitioners".

The event concluded with remarks from Prof. Jahirun Mungkon, Dean of the College of Fisheries, who thanked the participants for their active engagement in the mission to save Lake Lanao. The seminar was moderated by Hidaya B. Acraman, who served as the Master of Ceremonies.

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