Team KASAGana of NISU-Main Campus was named Grand Winner in the AVAMOS Blue Nation Innovation Challenge: Show and Tell held at District 21 Hotel, Iloilo City, on November 15, 2025.

 

Organized by the AVAMOS Research Group in collaboration with the Embassy of France in the Philippines and Micronesia, the competition featured more than 20 teams from leading universities across Region 6, including the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV), West Visayas State University (WVSU), Capiz State University (CAPSU), Carlos Memorial State University–Binalbagan, Philippine Science High School–Western Visayas Campus, and the University of the Philippines High School in Iloilo (UPHSI).

 

Team KASAGana secured the top award with its project, “KASAGANA: Innovation Culture System,” an initiative that promotes sustainability in the Blue Swimming Crab industry.

 

The team presenters were Ryan B. Catulin and Marco T. Mahilum, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries Alumni Batch 2025 of the College of Fisheries and Allied Sciences (CFAS), and Cobbie M. Tangente, Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology–Drafting (BSIT–Drafting), guided by mentors Dr. Cheryl B. Jela, CFAS Chairperson, and Dr. Leovigildo Rey S. Alaban, CFAS Dean.

 

 

Mahilum said in an interview that the win marks a significant achievement for their college, noting that CFAS has long operated with limited resources yet continues to show resilience.

 

He also added that the victory reflects their capability to excel when given opportunities. “This achievement marks a significant milestone for CFAS. This stands as a powerful testament to NISU, that with greater opportunities and resources, the College of Fisheries and Allied Sciences can rise, compete, and excel beyond expectations,” he said, adding that their coaches’ guidance molded them into the best versions of themselves as well.

 

Additionally, the team received the Coastline 5023 Incubation Award for its strong contribution to advancing sustainable innovations in the blue economy.

 

Meanwhile, the group expressed appreciation to university officials for their support. They acknowledged Dr. Larry B. Deysolong, Vice President for Research and Extension, and Dr. Felipe P. Vista IV, Director for Research and Development Services, for funding their project, “Polyculture of Blue Swimming Crab and Seaweeds in Marine Protected Areas.” They also thanked Dr. Jeff George V. Delima of the Office of Student Affairs for covering their travel expenses.

 

The team further credited Dr. Bobby D. Gerardo, University President, for championing the BS Fisheries program and continued support that helped students gain recognition on regional and national stages.