Republic of the Philippines

NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines
ISO 9001:2015 CERTIFIED

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE

XY Aquatic Synergy: Redeveloping the Bureau of Fisheries

and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Building Complex
in the Science City of Muñoz

A Thesis Submitted in Fulfilment of the

Requirements for the Degree of
Bachelor of Science in Architecture

Heizel Heins M. Martin

Thesis Proponent

Ar. Jessa Crea A. Rumbaoa

Thesis Adviser

Ar. Robinson V. Bergantinos

Thesis Moderator

September 8, 2023

Contact No. (0905) 475-1771

Transforming Communities through Science and Technology Email:
architecture@neust.edu.ph
www.neust.edu.ph
CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Fish leads in animal-based forms of protein for human nutritional needs.

Its nutritious qualities are important to the health of millions of Filipino
consumers. In the Philippines, millions of Filipinos rely on the marine
ecosystems for food nutrition and livelihood. With an annual catch of around 2
million metric tons made up of more than 100 species and species-groupings,
the nation is frequently among the top 10 marine capture fisheries producing
countries. (URI, 2018)

Before the passing of the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 (Republic

Act No. 8550) into law, the Philippines has the National Fisheries Technology
Center (NFTC), it is established in 1979, located in Central Luzon State
University (CLSU) campus in Munoz, Nueva Ecija in collaborative partnership
with the Texas A & M University (TAMU), the United States Agency for
International Development (USAID), and (BFAR) to establish the center. The
function of NFTC is to act as the Philippine Germplasm Reference Collection
Center for Tilapia and other freshwater species. The Bureau of Fisheries and
Aquatic Resources (BFAR) converted to a staff bureau in October 1987 then
the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 was passed into law.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) in partnership with the Central Luzon

State University (CLSU) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
(BFAR) are planning to build a Fisheries Biotechnology Center and redevelop
the outdated facilities and offices of the BFAR in Science City of Munoz, Nueva
Ecija, to ensure that BFAR operates in compliance with the laws and
regulations in accordance to the Philippine Fisheries Act of 1998 (Republic Act
8550).

Santos (2022) “We will soon achieve our shared goal of having a
reinforced FBC with the resources required to carry out the DA's Biotechnology
Research Agenda for the fisheries sector. Without Secretary William Dar's
leadership and his unwavering commitment to using biotechnology to improve
Philippine agriculture and fisheries, none of this would be feasible”.
 CLSU President Edgar Orden, also praised the BFAR building complex's
new FBC building for offering training possibilities to the university's students.
The National Freshwater Fisheries Technology Center of the DA-Bureau of
Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is currently the location where the FBC
operates.

On March 25, 2022, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Central

Luzon State University (CLSU) sign a memorandum of agreement establishing
the new Fisheries and Biotechnology Center (FBC) building with the (BFAR)
building complex. The FBC will be located on a seven-hectare plot of land inside
the CLSU Compound in the Science City of Munoz, Nueva Ecija, and will be
run by the DA National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI).

Architectural Approach and Solution

The study focuses on three (3) major subjects: Research and

development buildings, livelihood programs and educational facilities.
Therefore, the architectural approach focuses on sustainability, functional
efficiency, education and community engagement to be able to design and
redevelop the BFAR building complex to support its mission and objectives.

• Sustainability – by prioritizing sustainable and environmentally

responsible design practices and incorporate green building
principles, energy-efficient systems, and materials with low
environmental impact. Incorporate eco-friendly practices, such as
rainwater harvesting, renewable energy sources, and sustainable
landscaping, to demonstrate BFAR's commitment to
environmental application.

• Functional Efficiency – by designing the building complex to

optimize functionality and ensure that spaces are efficiently set to
support BFAR's administrative, research, and educational
activities. Create flexible spaces that can adapt to changing needs
and future growth.

• Education – design educational facilities, such as classrooms,

 training centers, showcase rooms, museum and exhibition halls
to educate the community, especially the local farmers,
fishermen, and business owners. And the students taking the
course, BS Fisheries and the youth for educational tours.

• Community Engagement - Design public engagement spaces,

such as visitor centers and educational areas, to foster
community interaction and awareness of BFAR's work. These
spaces can include exhibits, interactive displays, and educational
programs. If applicable, include spaces that can serve as meeting
areas, event venues, or gathering places for the local community.
These spaces can promote community involvement and support.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The existing BFAR building complex and its facilities are outdated since
it has been operating since 1979 (NFFTC to BFAR). Over time, spatial
requirements and work processes have evolved and advancements in
technology and equipment may require infrastructure upgrades to
accommodate modern tools, equipment, technology and research facilities.

The Fisheries Biotechnology Center will also be established in the

building complex that would serve as a pioneering institution at the intersection
of scientific research, technological innovation, and sustainable fisheries
management.

This study aims to respond to the current problems for the

redevelopment the BFAR building complex in Science City of Munoz, Nueva
Ecija in three major subjects:

I. BFAR Research and Development Facilities & Offices

Redevelopment

The redevelopment can address structural issues, upgrade

utilities, and improve the overall condition of the complex. It can
optimize the layout of the complex to make better use of available
space, improve workflow, and enhance functionality. By redesigning
the complex to better suit its operational needs, BFAR can offer
improved services to the fisheries and aquaculture sectors,
benefiting fisherfolk and related industries. The redevelopment of the
BFAR building complex includes the following:

o Laboratories

- Develop laboratories equipped for advanced fisheries

research, aquatic biotechnology, and genetic analysis. These
facilities would facilitate studies on fish health, breeding, and
the development of improved aquaculture practices.

o Fish Hatcheries

- Incorporate specialized areas for fish hatcheries where

researchers can study fish reproduction and develop
techniques for sustainable fish farming. These hatcheries
could also serve as educational spaces for students and the
public.

o Biotechnology facilities

- Create a space dedicated to the application of biotechnology

in fisheries, such as genetic improvement, disease
management, and sustainable feed production. This hub
would encourage collaboration between researchers, biotech
experts, and industry stakeholders.

o Aquaponic and Hydroponic systems

- Incorporate aquaponic and hydroponic systems as part of the

center's landscaping. These gardens would demonstrate
innovative ways of integrating fish farming with plant
cultivation, promoting sustainable practices and resource
efficiency.
 o Work Spaces and Offices

- Optimize the layout of the complex to make better use of

available space, improve workflow, and enhance
functionality. By redesigning the complex to better suit its
operational needs, BFAR can offer improved services.

o Conference halls and Meeting rooms

- Include conference halls and meeting rooms equipped for

international and national symposiums, conferences, and
collaborative discussions, attracting experts and stakeholders
from around the world.

II. Livelihood and Community Engagement

Redevelopment of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic

Resources (BFAR) building complex in the Science City of Munoz
has the potential to significantly benefit the livelihoods of various
stakeholders in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, as well as the
local community.

Engaging with the public and local communities in the

redevelopment process can foster a sense of ownership and
responsibility for the complex. This engagement can lead to
increased support for sustainable fisheries practices and local
initiatives. Improved facilities can help fisherfolk and aquaculture
producers access markets more effectively.

III. Education, Trainings, and Aquatic Showcases

The study aims to redevelop the BFAR building complex that will
educate the community, especially the local farmers, fishermen, and
business owners. And the students taking the course, BS Fisheries
and the youth for educational tours, by conducting seminars,
trainings, showcases, tours and events that will be hosted by the
BFAR. The architectural approach and solution of the
 redevelopment of BFAR in its educational aspect a are the following:

Design classrooms and interactive learning spaces

- For conducting workshops, seminars, and educational

programs focusing on fisheries, aquaculture, and
biotechnology. The center would play a vital role in
disseminating knowledge to students, farmers, and the wider
community.

Museum, Showcases and Exhibition Halls

- Design interactive displays and aquariums that showcase the

rich aquatic biodiversity of the region. These exhibits would
educate visitors about different fish species, their habitats,
and the importance of preserving aquatic ecosystems.

- Design the building complex with visitor-friendly elements,

museum, aquatic showcases, fishing activities, etc., it can
attract tourists and promote the local fisheries and
aquaculture industry. This can create opportunities for
tourism-related businesses and additional income for the
community.

SCOPE AND DELIMITATION

The scope of the study involves the improvement and redevelopment of

BFAR building complex and the Fisheries Biotechnology Center in the Science
City of Munoz, Nueva Ecija.

o This includes administrative offices, laboratories, fisheries and

aquatic facilities, storage areas, visitor centers, and any other
structures or spaces.

o It also involves creating more efficient workspaces, improving

research facilities, or enhancing public engagement areas.

o The scope involves the respondents in the project, including BFAR

 personnel, government agencies, architects, engineers, contractors,
and potentially the local community, that have each role and
responsibilities.

o The scope also involves the legal and environmental impact

assessments, sustainability goals, or green building practices to be
incorporated into the redevelopment.

The delimitation of the study specifies the limitation in the budget, the
project will operate within a defined financial scope and resources. Other
delimitations are the legal approaches that may or may not be implemented
while conducting the study. And the potential impacts on the local community,
the delimitation on weather it has a positive or negative impacts and managing
it by community involvement in the study.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

BFAR's efforts are crucial for the Philippines due to its significant
dependence on fisheries and aquatic resources for food security, quality
services, livelihoods, and education.

This study will be beneficial for the following entities:

Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR):
BFAR is the primary beneficiary as it will directly benefit from the
improved infrastructure and facilities within the complex. This includes
upgraded workspaces, laboratories, and resources to support its fisheries and
aquaculture management, research, and administrative functions.
BFAR Officials/Personnel/Staff:
Employees and staff working at the BFAR complex will benefit from
better working conditions, modern facilities, and improved resources, which can
enhance their productivity and job satisfaction.
Fisheries and Aquaculture:
The redevelopment can indirectly benefit the fisheries and aquaculture
industries by enabling BFAR to carry out its regulatory, research, and support
functions more effectively. This can lead to improved management practices,
sustainability, and growth.
Local Community:
The redevelopment project may include elements that engage and
educate the local community about fisheries and aquatic resources.
Businesses:
Businesses involved in fisheries, aquaculture, and related industries,
can benefit from a more organized and supportive regulatory environment, as
well as potential collaboration opportunities with BFAR.
Environmental Conservation Organizations:
Organizations focused on environmental conservation and sustainable
resource management can benefit from BFAR's commitment to sustainability
and responsible fisheries practices.
Government and Local Economy:
The redevelopment project can stimulate economic activity in the Science city
of Munoz through construction jobs, increased tourism, and improved fisheries
and aquaculture practices, contributing to local economic development.
Future Generations:
Sustainable fisheries and aquatic resource management practices resulting
from the project can benefit future generations by preserving marine
ecosystems and ensuring a stable source of food and income.

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

The redevelopment of the BFAR building complex focuses on three (3)

major subjects: BFAR building and facilities, livelihood & community
engagements, and educational facilities, museum and showcases. In which the
3 subjects can be studied by conducting analysis, assessments, and case
studies. The process or tools that will be used to gather data are focus-group
interviews, assessments, documentary, survey questionnaires, and analysis.
Therefore, the architectural approach focuses on sustainability, functional
efficiency, education and community engagement to be able to come up with
architectural solutions by redeveloping/updating the facilities that should meet
the standards of BFAR and develop educational facilities for learning purposes
and livelihood programs and community engagements.
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

(URI, 2018), “Recommendations for fisheries redevelopment include "(1)

managing or lowering fisheries abuse and other human activities affecting the
fisheries that enable fisheries to recover, (2) implementing efficient systems of
marine conservation areas, (3) connecting fishers, consumers, and other
stakeholders in fisheries management, (4) enhancing fisheries science,
observing, and supervision capacities, and (5) offer alternative livelihood, skills,
and improved education to fishers.”

The theory relates to this study that focuses on three (3) major subjects which
are the following:

• Improvement of the BFAR building & facilities – the theory supports

this statement by implementing a controlled and protected fish
hatcheries to be able to recover and reproduce. And the improvement of
the facilities indicates that there will be more research and development
that the BFAR will achieve.

• Incorporating educational facilities, training center, museum and

showcases - the theory relates on this statement for it will design an
educational facility that promotes learning to enhance fisheries science,
research, development, innovations and management.

• Developing livelihood programs and community engagements –

the theory supports the statement by connecting or engagement with the
local fishers, stakeholders and the community it will be possible to
redevelop and help the community’s livelihood.
 REDEVELOPMENT OF BFAR BUILDING COMPLEX

BFAR Building & Facilities Education, Trainings Livelihood and

and Showcases Community Engagements

Conducting site analysis, Conducting a case study Conducting a case study in

existing building assessment,
data gathering, environmental
assessment, design review,
innovations, building materials
and construction, laws, rules and
regulations about designing
BFAR building
about educational impact
of the BFAR educational
facilities on students,
professors, lecturers and
other professionals.
PROCESS
the local community and
their livelihood about the
impact of the
redevelopment of the
BFAR complex, especially
the local fishermen or
farmer and owners of
fisheries.

Conduct research and analysis about the redevelopment of the BFAR building Complex
and gather the information and data through:

Interview Site Analysis Laws and Ordinances

Assessment Data Analysis Design Parameters
Documentary Analysis Application of
Survey tools and Gathered Data

Architectural Approach

Sustainability, Innovative and Educational Approach Community Engagement

Functional Efficiency

Architectural Solution

Laboratories, fish hatcheries,

biotechnology facilities,
aquaponic and hydroponic
systems, work spaces and
offices, FBC, exhibition halls,
service facilities, technology
and mechanical facilities and
recreational areas
Classrooms, training Own fish hatcheries, fish
facilities, museum, markets and shops, and
showcases, showrooms, other fisheries facilities for
exhibition halls, and the community.
interactive learning areas
OUTPUT

Data about the redevelopment of BFAR building complex, considering the existing building
conditions, site and its environment, the proper building materials and methods of
construction, guided by the laws, and professionals. The architectural approach focusing
on sustainability then functional efficiency and education while involving the community, this
study will be applied to the design of the redevelopment of the BFAR building complex.

Figure 1. Research Paradigm of the Study

Figure 1 shows the theoretical framework of the study, Redevelopment of

the BFAR building complex in the Science City of Munoz, Nueva Ecija.
JUSTIFICATION OF THE STUDY

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Central Luzon State

University (CLSU) signs a memorandum of agreement establishing the new
building of the Fisheries and Biotechnology Center (FBC) with the (BFAR)
building complex on March 25, 2022. The FBC, to be led by the DA National
Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI), will be built on a
seven-hectare land within the CLSU Compound in the Science City of Muñoz,
Nueva Ecija. This statement of the Department of Agriculture, in partnership
with the Central Luzon State University, serves as justification of the study to
be conducted, for it will help the DA, CLSU and BFAR envision the outcome of
the redevelopment project of BFAR building complex.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

Aquaculture – is the controlled process of cultivating aquatic organisms,

especially for human consumption. It’s a similar concept to agriculture but with
fish instead of plants or livestock. Aquaculture is also referred to as fish farming.
(GlobalSeafood.org)

Aquatic - growing or living in or frequenting water (Merriam-Webster

Dictionary)

BFAR- The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is a government

agency in the Philippines responsible for the conservation, management, and
sustainable development of the country's fisheries and aquatic resources.
(Department of Agriculture)

Community - the people living in one particular area or people who are
considered as a unit because of their common interests, social group, or
nationality (Cambridge Dictionary)

DA - Department of Agriculture (abbreviated as DA; Filipino: Kagawaran ng

Pagsasaka) is the executive department of the Philippine government
responsible for the promotion of agricultural and fisheries development and
growth. (Department of Agriculture)
FBC - Fisheries Biotechnology Center is a specialized research and
development facility or institution dedicated to the application of biotechnology
techniques and tools in the field of fisheries and aquaculture. (Department of
Agriculture)

National Fisheries Technology Center (NFTC) - it is established in 1979,

located in Central Luzon State University (CLSU) campus in Munoz, Nueva
Ecija in collaborative partnership with the Texas A & M University (TAMU), the
United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and (BFAR) to
establish the center. The function of NFTC is to act as the Philippine
Germplasm Reference Collection Center for Tilapia and other freshwater
species.

Synergy - An effect of the interaction of the actions of two agents such that the
result of the combined action is greater than expected as a simple additive
combination of the two agents acting separately. (Webster's Revised
Unabridged Dictionary)

REFERENCES

Group, D. C. (2022, March 26). DA, CLSU green light new fisheries biotech
center building. Official Portal of the Department of Agriculture.
https://www.da.gov.ph/da-clsu-green-light-new-fisheries-biotech-
center-building/

Theory of Change. (n.d.). https://www.crc.uri.edu/download/20181118-Fish-

Right-TOC-Report_Approved.pdfTAHİLUDDİN, A., & TERZİ, E. (2021).
An Overview of Fisheries and Aquaculture in the Philippines. Journal of
Anatolian Environmental and Animal Sciences, 6(4), 475–486.
https://doi.org/10.35229/jaes.944292

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8550 THE PHILIPPINE FISHERIES CODE OF 1998 “AN
ACT PROVIDING FOR THE DEVELOPMENT, MANAGEMENT AND
CONSERVATION OF THE FISHERIES AND AQUATIC
RESOURCES, INTEGRATING ALL LAWS PERTINENT THERETO,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.” (n.d.).
 https://www.bfar.da.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Philippine-
Fisheries-Code-of-1998.pdf

Official Gazette. (1998, February 25). Republic Act No. 8550 | GOVPH. Official
Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines.
https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1998/02/25/republic-act-no-8550/

Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 (Republic Act No. 8550). | UNEP Law and
Environment Assistance Platform. (n.d.). Leap.unep.org. Retrieved
September 5, 2023, from https://leap.unep.org/countries/ph/national-
legislation/philippine-fisheries-code-1998-republic-act-no-
8550#:~:text=The%20Code%20makes%20provision%20for%20the%
20management%20and