Today marked a significant milestone for Dr. Arlyn Mandas as she faced the national evaluation for the 2025 Gawad Saka Awards, where she stands as a finalist for the Outstanding Fisherfolk in Aquaculture category. A seasoned aquaculture expert, educator, and community advocate, Dr. Mandas continues to inspire with her unwavering commitment to empowering others through sustainable and accessible fish farming practices.

In her heartfelt speech during the evaluation, Dr. Mandas shared her advocacy of giving back to the community. Her mission is clear: to make aquaculture accessible to all, regardless of land ownership, age, or background. Through her signature technology—low-maintenance, space-efficient fish farming—Dr. Mandas has empowered many Filipinos to start their own livelihoods even without traditional farmland. With just 10 tanks occupying about 50 square meters, her system allows individuals to begin farming in backyards, vacant lots, and even urban spaces.

“What drives me is seeing people succeed using the knowledge I shared with them,” Dr. Mandas said. “Farming should not be limited to those with land. With science and the right system, anyone can start—even a child.”

True enough, the youngest hito (catfish) farmer she has trained is just 11 years old. Her work has enabled both the young and elderly to find sustainable income sources, and she often brings her teachings to the most underserved areas—including former rebel camps—where aquaculture becomes not only a livelihood but a symbol of hope and peace.

A former professor at Mindanao State University for 24 years, Dr. Mandas has trained countless students and mentored fish farmers throughout Region XII and beyond. She is also the owner of Saxonylyn Scifish Farm and ABAM Agro-Environmental Consultancy Services, and serves as a technical consultant under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

In 2015, she was recognized as the Aquaculture without Frontiers (AwF) Woman of the Month, highlighting her impactful work in advancing fish farming techniques in the Philippines. Through the DOST’s Consultancy for Agricultural Productivity Enhancement (CAPE) Program, she has assisted over 250 fish farmers in Region XII alone.

One of her most notable achievements was the introduction of Pacific white shrimp farming in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat—an innovation that turned idle lands into thriving shrimp farms, significantly improving local income and productivity. Her continued efforts in linking farmers to technical knowledge, financial aid, and market opportunities have made her a catalyst for inclusive rural development.

Dr. Mandas also regularly conducts workshops, such as the Scientific Hito Farming Workshop, where she teaches efficient, science-based aquaculture to individuals and families. Her work is deeply rooted in education, community outreach, and practical science—making her not only a leader in her field but a true champion for grassroots progress.

Her journey has not gone unnoticed. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 12 (BFAR 12), the Department of Agriculture, and the City Agriculture Office have all expressed their full support for Dr. Mandas’ advocacy for sustainable and inclusive aquaculture. Their backing further strengthens her mission of expanding opportunities and improving the quality of life for fisherfolk and communities across the country.

As the nation celebrates agricultural excellence through the Gawad Saka Awards, Dr. Arlyn Mandas stands as a shining example of how one person’s dedication and generosity can uplift communities and reshape the future of Philippine aquaculture.