The UP Visayas Technology Transfer and Business Development Office (UPV TTBDO) and UPV Patent Mining Team led by project leaders Dr. Concepcion Ponce and Prof. Norwell Brian Bautista, conducted a Consultative Meeting on the Status of Scallops Research and Industry last July 16, 2021. The meeting was attended by 24 participants composed of invited research academe experts, LGU representatives, and industry experts. The pool of expertise created an interactive exchange of ideas and probable solutions about the gaps that needed to be addressed on scallop fishery and export concerns, mainly in Carles and Estancia, Iloilo.
UP Visayas Professors, Dr. Anabelle Campos of the Division of Biological Sciences and Dr. Jose Peralta of the Institute of Fish Processing Technology, Senior Aquaculturist of DA-NFRDI, Ms. Nonita Cabacaba, and one of the pioneers of scallops research in Bicol Regions, Dr. Alex Camaya, discussed the concerns of the industry expressed by Vinaquality Corporation CEO, Mr. Raul Bautista, and Scallops World Owner, Mr. Christopher Salao. The LGU Representatives of Carles and Estancia also gave their insights on the scallop fishery in their respective towns. The open discussion was moderated and facilitated by Dr. Gerald Quinitio, a retired professor of the UP Visayas, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences.
The meeting was also attended by BFAR Region VI Regional Director, Dr. Remia Apparri, and Hon. Mayor Siegfredo A. Betita of Carles, Iloilo. The officials of DOST-MRRD, Director Mari-Ann Acedera, and Ms. Ma. Adela Corpuz, together with Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD) representative Ms. Mae Dagaas, were also present during the discourse.
The UPV Patent Mining Project is part of the Patent Mining Program for Selected Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR) Commodities Through Strengthened IP-TBM Offices by the DOST-PCAARRD. This program aims to boost the utilization of technologies generated from R&D activities and create an enhanced and relevant AANR innovation ecosystem.