The ASEAN Fisheries Education Network (ASEAN-FEN) Annual International Fisheries Symposium (IFS) is a premier scientific forum that brings together researchers, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and development partners to advance innovation in fisheries and aquatic sciences. As a flagship program of ASEAN-FEN, a consortium of university-based institutions across Southeast Asia, IFS provides a platform for interdisciplinary exchange and regional collaboration.
The symposium will feature diverse sessions on aquaculture biotechnology and engineering, aquatic animal health and nutrition, genetics and breeding, fisheries technology and governance, aquatic resource management, biodiversity and climate change, seafood processing and food security, socio-economics, and community outreach. Through technical presentations, keynote discussions, and knowledge sharing, IFS promotes science-based solutions to pressing challenges such as overfishing, climate change, and sustainable food systems, supporting evidence-based policy and capacity building across the region and beyond.
About UP Visayas
The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) is a leading institution in fisheries, marine science, and coastal resource management in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Established in 1975, UPV serves as a center for academic excellence, interdisciplinary research, innovation, and capacity building in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. With campuses in Miagao and Iloilo City, it is strategically situated within key coastal and marine ecosystems. Guided by its commitment to academic excellence, policy engagement, and community extension, UPV advances science-based solutions and fosters regional collaboration, supporting the goals of the 2026 International Fisheries Symposium.
Previous IFS Themes
2015 – Towards sustainability, advanced technology and community enhancement
2016 – Promoting Healthier Aquaculture and Fisheries for Food Safety and Security
2018 – Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture for the Benefits of Mankind
2022 – Adapt to changes
2023 – Building Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture for Future Generations
2024 – Fish as a Global Food Resource
2025 – ASEAN Fisheries and Marine Resources for Global Sustainability
About the Subthemes
Throwback on IFS 2025
The 13th International Fisheries Symposium (IFS 2025), organized by the ASEAN Fisheries Education Network in collaboration with Diponegoro University, was successfully held in Semarang from October 6–9, 2025. Centered on the theme “ASEAN Fisheries and Marine Resources for Global Sustainability,” the symposium convened a diverse community of scientists, researchers, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and students from across the globe.
The event served as a dynamic platform for the exchange of knowledge and innovations across a wide spectrum of fisheries and aquatic disciplines. Key thematic areas included aquaculture biotechnology and engineering, aquatic animal health and nutrition, fisheries governance and policy, biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation, seafood processing and food security, and socio-economic dimensions of fisheries. Through plenary sessions, parallel technical presentations, poster sessions, and panel discussions, participants engaged in critical dialogue aimed at addressing emerging challenges and advancing sustainable practices in fisheries and marine resource management.
IFS 2025 highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and science-based policymaking in achieving resilient and sustainable aquatic systems. It also strengthened regional and international partnerships, particularly within the ASEAN community, while fostering opportunities for early-career researchers to contribute to global discourse.
As a continuation of a longstanding tradition of academic excellence, the symposium reaffirmed its role as a vital forum for shaping the future of fisheries science and governance. The insights, research outputs, and networks generated during IFS 2025 are expected to contribute significantly to advancing sustainable fisheries, enhancing food security, and supporting the blue economy in the years to come.
About Iloilo
Iloilo City is a progressive and highly urbanized city on the island of Panay. With the moniker, “City of Love,” Iloilo is known for its soft-spoken and hospitable people. The warmth of the Ilonggos is what makes the city flourish, earning recognition nationally and globally for its governance, livability, environmental management, and sustainable development.
The city strikes a perfect balance — focusing on progress, while honoring tradition and history. The city is brimming with infrastructure developments headlined by the world-class Iloilo Convention Center, Iloilo River Esplanade, Iloilo Business Park, and Iloilo Sunset Boulevard. It is also the home to iconic structures such as the Molo Church, Jaro Cathedral, Molo Mansion, and Casa Real de Iloilo.
Iloilo City has also landed on the global culinary map as it is part of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO’s) Creative Cities of Gastronomy. Among the popular Ilonggo dishes are La Paz Batchoy, Pancit Molo, native chicken inasal. Iloilo City is also known for its vibrant celebrations — its cultural and religious event, “Dinagyang,” and its traditional sailing event, “Paraw Regatta.”)