The Fishponder

15/06/2025

[June 15, 2025] 𝐈𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐞𝐬

This Father’s Day, we honor our fathers who showed us what strength, love, and quiet dedication really mean. They may not always ask for recognition, but their efforts shape our lives in so many ways. From their helping hands to their steady support, they are the silent heroes behind many of our dreams.

Today, we thank all the dads, father figures, and guardians who continue to guide, protect, and inspire us every day.

𝐻𝒶𝓅𝓅𝓎 𝐹𝒶𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇’𝓈 𝒟𝒶𝓎 𝓉𝑜 𝒶𝓁𝓁 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒶𝓂𝒶𝓏𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒻𝒶𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇𝓈 𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒!

[Graphics By | AK Bantaculo]

06/06/2025

𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐑𝐘 || 𝐓𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤

𝘐𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘦𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴. 𝘈𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴 𝘯𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴, 𝘫𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘱—𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘴, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘻𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵.

In roles often hidden from the spotlight—editors, creatives, logistics heads, and silent organizers—these are those who ensure everything runs seamlessly. Every deliverable submitted, every event pulled off, every detail fine-tuned. And yet, when the moment of recognition arrives, some remain just figures at the back—unseen, unheard, and unacknowledged.

Despite the long nights, the emotional strain, and the unwavering commitment poured into every task, no name is called. No award is given. And while praise was never the goal, the absence of even the smallest nod of appreciation can quietly hurt. It makes one wonder: Is my presence valued? Should I keep pushing forward? Are the missed deadlines really so defining? Do all these sacrifices mean so little?

To be an editor or artist—or anyone working behind the scenes—means creating with inspiration. It means having vision, patience, and the ability to deliver even under pressure. And there is pride in that. Pride in transforming ideas into results. In finishing the work not just for oneself, but to inspire others—to show that passion, initiative, and silent leadership still matter.

Often, these contributors step far beyond the boundaries of their assigned roles—not because they have to, but because they genuinely love what they do. They find joy in the purpose, in the people, in the collective heartbeat of the organization that feels more like family than a task force. And the people who stand alongside them? They matter just as much. Their dedication, though equally quiet, deserves to be seen and celebrated.

Still, even when overlooked, they continue. Because they know that the work—the values they uphold, the grit they carry, and the heart they put into every unseen task—will shape them far beyond this chapter.

Perhaps their worth wasn’t acknowledged in the way they had hoped. But that doesn’t diminish its reality. Because though they may stand at the back of the room, they are not invisible. They are not nobody. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐤𝐞𝐲 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬—𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲, 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬.

[Written By | AK Bantaculo]
[Graphics By | AK Bantaculo]

06/06/2025

[June 6, 2025] 𝐄𝐢𝐝 𝐚𝐥-𝐀𝐝𝐡𝐚 𝐌𝐮𝐛𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐤!

𝘔𝘶𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘮 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥𝘸𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘊𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘌𝘪𝘥 𝘢𝘭-𝘈𝘥𝘩𝘢 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘍𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘩, 𝘚𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘺.

Millions of Muslims around the world came together today to observe Eid al-Adha, one of the holiest festivals in Islam. Known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” the occasion honors the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God—a narrative shared across Islamic, Christian, and Jewish traditions (Qur’an 37:102–107; Bible, Genesis 22).

The day begins with special congregational prayers, followed by the symbolic sacrifice of livestock such as goats, sheep, or cows, a practice known as Qurbani. According to Islamic teachings, the meat is then divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the less fortunate (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5245). The celebration also coincides with the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, a spiritual journey that millions of Muslims undertake annually (Surah Al-Hajj 22:27–28).

Beyond the rituals, Eid al-Adha serves as a global expression of unity, charity, and devotion. Community organizations in cities like Jakarta, Istanbul, and London reported increased food distributions and aid drives to support those affected by poverty and conflict (Islamic Relief, 2025). Religious leaders emphasized that the essence of the holiday lies not only in sacrifice, but in humility and service to others—values that remain especially relevant amid global uncertainty. As families gathered, exchanged greetings of “Eid Mubarak,” and shared meals, this sacred day offered a powerful reminder of faith’s role in bringing people together across cultures and borders (Pew Research Center, 2024).

[Graphics By | AK Bantaculo]

29/05/2025

𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 | To all students who wish to retrieve their photos from the NSTP Graduation and Recognition Rites, Academic Excellence Awards, and SIDLAK 2025 Ceremony:
You may now access and download your official event photos through the Google Drive link provided below.

GDRIVE LINK:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZrDxsfEDWgO2iKVus04u0_ax_3gUv0LC?usp=sharing

These moments have been beautifully captured and curated by The Sunset Creatives – Media Club, dedicated to preserving your most memorable achievements.

[Note | Kindly put your credits to the Sunset Creatives - Media Club, when posting your photos]. Kudos and congratulations again everyone!

[Photos By | The Sunset Creatives]
[Graphics By | AK Bantaculo]

29/05/2025

[𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓] The SIDLAK 2025 Awards of Honors and Awardees was a memorable event held at the Social Services Center (SSC) Hall, celebrated as part of the NSTP-CWTS Graduation and Recognition Rites. The event honored student achievements in different areas and marked an important milestone in the university's growth and progress.

Students who excelled in Academic Excellence, Applied Excellence and Skills, and Licensure Examination success were honored at the event—each achievement showcasing their steadfast discipline, intellectual dedication, and commitment to future professional service. These accomplishments serve as a testament to both personal achievement and the university's collective goal of developing future leaders who represent both excellence and moral integrity.

Student organizations alongside individual leaders received equal recognition for their efforts in building a vibrant community rooted in strong values. The SIDLAK Individual Awardees received recognition for their leadership influence while the Performing Student Organization earned accolades for exceptional cultural and artistic expression. The Creative Impact Award alongside Breakthrough Organization and Outstanding Organization accolades served to emphasize university groups' innovative approaches and student empowerment while maintaining long-term excellence.

The celebration gained additional layers of meaning and inspiration through Dr. Aileen Alinsub's presence, a Hospitalist Medical Director of Consuelo K. Tan Memorial Medical Center, Inc. , and wife of the Mayor of the Municipality of Bontoc. The audience connected deeply with her keynote message which explored themes of perseverance alongside purposeful professionalism and people-oriented service.

The SIDLAK 2025 celebration functioned as both a platform for acknowledging student accomplishments and a reaffirmation of the university’s dedication to developing leaders who will effect radical change in their professional domains.

[Photos By | The Sunset Creatives]
[Graphics By | AK Bantaculo]

09/05/2025

The current work is the first effort to quantify cell viability and profiling of cell morphotypes found in the coelomic fluid of the Crown-of-Thorns starfish (COTS) (𝘈𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘪 L.), collected in the territorial waters of Southern Leyte, Philippines. For the cell viability, based on the trypan blue exclusion test on the varying time interval for counting, at fresh preparation (0 minutes), the counted live cells are 137 (mean: 34.25 ± 6.45) with coelomocyte viability of 6.8 ± 10.26 x 105 cells ml; as the time increases, the viable cells from the prepared fractions decrease.

This study reveals that the coelomic fluid of COTS contains diverse coelomocyte morphotypes, including spherule, vibratile, fusiform, crystal, progenitor, and phagocyte cells, all of which have distinct cellular sizes and morphologies. These cell types are also present during physiological changes in COTS. These findings offer valuable insights into the physiology and cellular components of COTS, potentially serving as a foundation in developing control strategies, including the discovery of novel and effective compounds to prevent or eradicate outbreaks.

To learn more, read the full article here https://doi.org/10.31398/tpjf

Help us to serve you better. For feedback on our publications and other IECs, please go to: https://tinyurl.com/32scfeee

The Philippine Journal of Fisheries (TPJF) is a semi-annual, open-access journal published by the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI). TPJF is indexed in Scopus, Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries Abstract, Directory of Open Access Journals, and ASEAN Citation Index, among others.

In the photo: Study’s Figure 2. A Actual Crown-of-Thorns starfish feeding on a coral with the evident white feeding scars (pointed by the light blue arrow); B. Collection of COTS through Scuba method, using metal thongs to remove it from the corals (Actual photo: SLSU-BioProTeC)

09/05/2025

09/05/2025

[𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟎𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓] 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐜𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓; 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

On May 7, 2025, Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) Bontoc Campus hosted an extemporaneous speech contest in celebration of Ocean Month, bringing together participants from various campuses, including Southern Leyte State University -Hinunangan Campus, SLSU-Tomas Oppus Campus, and SLSU Bontoc. The event held at the SSC Building, provided a platform for students to express their thoughts on marine conservation, climate change, and the importance of protecting ocean ecosystems.

The contest challenged participants to deliver impromptu speeches on topics related to ocean conservation, climate change, and sustainable marine practices. With only a few minutes to prepare, contestants showcased their ability to think critically and articulate their ideas effectively. The event emphasized the urgent need for action in preserving marine biodiversity and addressing the growing threats posed by climate change.

The speeches highlighted the interconnection between climate change and ocean health, urging communities to take proactive steps in reducing carbon emissions and protecting marine biodiversity. After a series of compelling speeches the winners of the contest were announced where the championship title was claimed by Ms. Llianee Cyl Helaena D. Balbon the representative from Tomas Oppus Campus, who delivered a powerful and well-structured speech that captivated both the audience and judges. Securing second place was Ms. Mika Balbon the speaker from SLSU Bontoc Campus impressed with insightful arguments and confident delivery, demonstrating a deep understanding of ocean conservation and climate change.

Meanwhile, the participant from Hinunangan Campus Mr.Constantino Christoper Pamugas earned third place, showcasing strong analytical skills and compelling rhetoric that highlighted the urgency of protecting marine ecosystems. The competition was judged by a distinguished panel of experts Mr. Joseph M. Anavesa an Associate Professor at SLSU-Tomas Oppus, Ms. Rochelle Marie Tormento a Senior High School Teacher at Bontoc National High School and Mr. Rey G. Comabig an Assistant .Professor under Faculty of Arts and Sciences at SLSU Main Campus. Their expertise in communication and environmental advocacy ensured a fair and insightful evaluation of each participant’s speech. The participation of students from Hinunangan, Tomas Oppus, and SLSU Bontoc highlighted the inter-campus collaboration in promoting environmental awareness.

The contest fostered a spirit of unity among young advocates, encouraging them to take an active role in addressing ocean-related challenges and climate change. The event concluded with an awarding ceremony, recognizing outstanding speakers who demonstrated exceptional knowledge and eloquence in discussing ocean conservation and climate change. As Ocean Month continues, SLSU Bontoc remains dedicated to fostering environmental consciousness among students and the broader community.

[Written By | Reca Savedra]
[Photos By | James Uno Simpao]

08/05/2025

[𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟎𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓] 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐜𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦

In celebration of Ocean Month 2025 with the theme “Karagatan ang Solusyon,” a collaborative event was held on May 7, 2025 at the Multi-Purpose Center (MPC) of SLSU Bontoc Campus. The program commenced with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, followed by an invocation, the SLSU Hymn, and the DENR Hymn to mark the significance of the partnership.

To set the tone for the event, Campus Director Dr. Gladys Ludevese Pascual delivered a warm welcome message, emphasizing the importance of protecting marine resources and highlighting the collaborative spirit of the occasion. Representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), one of the key partners in this initiative, were in attendance. The event focused on the theme of ocean conservation—a concern that goes beyond the Marine Biology and Fisheries programs. It is a collective responsibility, as every individual is part of the ecosystem and benefits from the ocean’s resources.

Faculty Dean Mr. Jimmy E. Salamida formally introduced the various stakeholders joining the celebration, including DENR Centro, Conservation and Development Division, Green Circle Inc., Bontoc Multipurpose Cooperative, Inc. (BCCI), and Plongeurs Du Monde, a French-based PADI-certified diver training organization and an active partner of SLSU-BC in ocean-related initiatives. Featured Speakers Ms. Gerly P. Doming, Section Chief of the Conservation and Development Division – DENR Region 8, served as the first speaker. She expressed gratitude to the host institution for organizing the event and emphasized that this is just the beginning of a continuing collaboration for the protection and conservation of the ocean.

A brief photo opportunity followed her speech, capturing the presence of various institutional partners and attendees. The intermission featured a special performance by Stella, bringing entertainment and cultural flair to the celebration. The second speaker represented the Bontoc Multipurpose Cooperative (BCCI) and is an alumna of SLSU Bontoc. She began her talk with a short history of BCCI, highlighting its evolution as a key cooperative in the community. She also shared insights into the organization’s programs and services, such as loan assistance, member benefits, and community outreach initiatives.

The speaker discussed their current and future business ventures, including sustainable projects like the formulation of Bangus (milkfish) feed. She concluded by reaffirming BCCI’s vision and mission of empowering local communities through sustainable economic development.

[Written By | Andrea Gabronino & Reca Savedra]
[Photos By | AK Bantaculo, Aiza Udarbe & John Brunz Camarista]

08/05/2025

[𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟎𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓] 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐜𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓; 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 & 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬.

[Photos By | James Uno Simpao, Miles Aidrian Lopez & John Brunz Camarista]

08/05/2025

[𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟎𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓] 𝐒𝐋𝐒𝐔 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐳 𝐁𝐞𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐜𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐜, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐲𝐭𝐞

In a resounding celebration of academic excellence, environmental awareness, and intercampus camaraderie, students from the various campuses of Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) demonstrated their intellectual mettle in the Intercollegiate Quiz Bee Competition, held today at the SLSU – Bontoc Campus.

The event was organized in line with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR- Region8) and university's observance of the Month of the Ocean 2025, a national campaign aimed at promoting marine conservation and awareness. Among the standout achievers was the DeepSea Squad from SLSU – Hinunangan Campus, composed of Rosa Mae A. Gausin, Keecy A. Dellosa, and Risha Joy F. Calaurian, who emerged as the champions of the competition. With remarkable composure, sharp intellect, and seamless teamwork, the trio navigated through a series of challenging questions covering marine science, general knowledge, and current environmental issues.

Their victory not only brought pride to their campus but also underscored the value of dedication and collaboration in academic pursuits. Adding to the day’s celebration was the impressive performance of the SCI-MATH Team from SLSU – Tomas Oppus Campus, who secured the Second Place title. The team, composed of Maria Carmela E. Ynot, Roxelle Stefhany B. Tecson, and MJ Cristel P. Catig, displayed strong analytical skills and a solid grasp of scientific and mathematical concepts. Their achievement reflects the high standard of education and preparation instilled at Tomas Oppus Campus. Not to be outdone, a second team from SLSU – Hinunangan Campus, the AYESS Team, composed of Leslie Joy Hersano, Clarence Gaviola, and Hannah Loraine Gases, earned a well-deserved Third Place finish. Their accomplishment highlighted the campus’s consistent excellence and dedication to academic development across various disciplines. The competition brought together some of the most promising student minds from SLSU’s campuses, fostering not only a spirit of friendly rivalry but also a deeper understanding of the urgent need to protect the country’s marine resources.

This year’s Month of the Ocean theme resonated strongly throughout the event, reminding participants and attendees alike of the vital role that youth and education play in safeguarding the future of our oceans. University officials commended all participating teams for their enthusiasm, preparation, and sportsmanship. “Competitions like these are not only about winning,” one organizer noted, “but also about building knowledge, confidence, and a sense of responsibility toward our natural environment.”

As the celebration of the Month of the Ocean continues, SLSU remains committed to cultivating excellence, encouraging environmental stewardship, and empowering its students to lead the way in both academic and civic engagement. Congratulations to all the winners and participants for their outstanding achievements and for truly making waves in this year’s competition!

[Written By | Koway Santiago]
[Photos By | John Brunz Camarista & AK Bantaculo]