SAN JOAQUIN, Iloilo—The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) conducted its ICARE (ISUFST Career Adventure Expo) talk at the San Joaquin School of Fisheries (SJSOF) this Tuesday morning, March 4, 2025. This event marked the university’s 26th sortie in its initiative to provide career guidance to students across the region, having previously visited 22 schools in 12 municipalities, servicing more than 7,000 students.
A total of 110 students participated in the event, which included not only SJSOF graduating students but also a section from the San Joaquin Farm School. SJSOF is the only fisheries high school in Region 6, while ISUFST holds the distinction of being the only fisheries university in the country.
The ICARE team comprised PAMMCO Director Herman Lagon and staff Jose Eugene Salazar, along with guidance counselors Keziah Lagarto, psychometrician Dwight Deslate, and SJSOF-ISUFST alumna Aivie Padohinog.
Dr. Lagon urged students to choose academic paths that match their strengths and dreams. He highlighted the need for self-reflection, research, and taking action. Introducing “ikigai,” he encouraged students to chase careers they love—where they can succeed, earn well, and truly impact their community.
While sharing their own career narratives, Lagarto and Deslate facilitated a session that included personality and career-interest assessments aimed at helping students better understand their future career paths. Furthermore, testimonials from Salazar and Padohinog provided valuable insights into various career trajectories. ISUFST cum laude graduate Padohinog, to note, topped the recent board examination for fisheries technologists, while Salazar was the former student regent of ISUFST.
SJSOF Guidance Designate Daisy Monicimpo expressed her appreciation for the initiative, highlighting the importance of such programs in guiding students toward their future endeavors. Principal RJ Sapalo shared his thoughts on the career talk, noting how it positively influenced students’ dreams and goals.
The two-hour event drew not only fisheries students but also those interested in agriculture and ICT, highlighting the diverse career options available to young learners.
As the ISUFST’s ICARE program—an Office of the President-supported initiative by PAMMCO in partnership with the Guidance Office of the Student Support Center and faculty-student-alumni volunteers—moves forward, it plans to reach more communities, providing mentorship and practical guidance to help students shape their educational and career paths. (K Lagarto, D Deslate, JE Salazar, and H Lagon/PAMMCO)
