USM CTI Connects with International Academic Institution for Collaboration
May 13, 2026
TULUNAN, COTABATO — A fisheries expert from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) Department of Fisheries spearheaded the “Training on Induced Spawning and Culture of Hito” on May 14, 2026, at Brgy. Maybula, Tulunan, Cotabato.
Made possible through a strategic collaboration between the USM Extension Services Office (ESO) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)- Cotabato Province, the training aimed to equip 20 members of the Maybula Integrated Farming Association (MIFA) with specialized aquaculture skills.
Prof. Leonila V. Papalid led the first round of the lecture sessions, covering essential topics such as Broodstock Management, Induced Spawning Techniques, Egg Incubation, and Fingerling Rearing.
“The challenge during the fertilization phase is that you only have one minute to inject the hormone into the hito,” Prof. Papalid explained as she demonstrated the proper hormone administration and manual stripping process following the lecture.
The second round of discussion focused on Grow-out Culture—the critical production phase where fingerlings are raised in ponds, tanks, or cages until they reach marketable size. Detailed modules included Pond Preparation, Stocking Fingerlings, Feeding Strategies, Water Management, Disease Prevention, Harvesting, and Profitability Analysis.
As the activity concluded, participants expressed appreciation for the training, highlighting how the transition from traditional practices to science-based methods would significantly improve their farm productivity.
“Maraming salamat sa USM at BFAR, sa mga bagong kaalaman sa tamang pag-aalaga at pagpaparami ng hito. Dahil dito, mas nakasisiguro na kaming tama at may magandang results ‘yung mga gagawin namin,” remarked Julius P. Cayacap, one of the MIFA farmer-beneficiaries.
The active involvement of the USM Fisheries expert highlighted the university’s vital role as a catalyst for rural development. By bridging the gap between academic research and practical application, the initiative ensures that local farmers are empowered to sustain their livelihoods through modernized fishing technologies.
