SEAFDEC/AQD, Japanese experts map out future research collabs

Researchers from SEAFDEC/AQD and Japanese experts convened on 5 June 2025 at the Tigbauan Main Station for discussions on the next phase of collaborative research under the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS).

The meeting was held to identify potential research topics to be included in JIRCAS’ upcoming mid- to long-term project slated to run from April 2026 to March 2031, with the possibility of extending until March 2033.

The session began with a review of the ongoing collaborative projects between SEAFDEC/AQD and JIRCAS by Dr. Satoshi Honda, Director and Project Leader of JIRCAS. He also stated potential topics for future research.

Several Japanese experts then proposed a series of research concepts:

• Ryuya Matsuda introduced a study focusing on the socio-economic potential of seaweed aquaculture;
• Tetsuya Sanda suggested a study centered on crustacean aquaculture;
• Tomoyuki Okutsu emphasized the importance of genetic biodiversity research; and
• Keishi Matsuda provided an overview of previous studies on fish behavioral physiology.

In the second part of the session, Dr. Leobert de la Peña, Head of the Research Division, outlined SEAFDEC/AQD’s priority studies in line with its mandate to support sustainable aquaculture development in Southeast Asia.

Commodity-specific research gaps were discussed by:

• Irene Legaspi (marine fish) – highlighted needs in broodstock management and larval rearing;
• Joana Joy Huervana (crustaceans) – identified gaps in broodstock quality, larval production, disease diagnostics and biosecurity protocols; and
• Hananiah Pitogo and Mr. Joseph Faisan (seaweeds) – identified challenges in seedstock quality and climate-resilient farming practices.

An open forum followed the presentations for the exchange of insights and research ideas among the attendees.