Fish and More at SEAFDEC Guimaras

 

 

The island of Guimaras has captured many tourists with its sweet mangoes and white-sand beaches. For Iloilo residents, Guimaras is a sort-of mandatory trip because for less than 20 minutes from the city, you can enjoy a good beach outing with your family and friends.

How many times, I’ve been to this island off the coast of Iloilo? I’ve lost count, but I’m still searching for the best resort to stay in Guimaras as well as things to do in Guimaras. One thing I can recommend though, is to visit SEAFDEC Guimaras. Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) is not new to me because I went to UP Visayas with Fisheries as the flagship program.

Anyway, one of my significant trips to the island was with my parents and it was Liam’s first time too. Island hopping is a popular activity in Guimaras and a visit to SEAFDEC is often included. I’d say this is a good and one of the best things to do in Guimaras with your family.

Why? Because it is very educational! Especially with my kids but I think my parents enjoyed it more.

DSC_0009_2

Igang Marine Station ( named after the baranggay where it is located) is a research and breeding site covering four islets with floating bridges. Visit SEAFDEC site to have an aerial view of SEAFEDEC Guimaras Igang Marine Station. Click here.

DSC_0086_2

My first visit to Igang Marine Station SEAFDEC Guimaras was 6 years ago, with my  co-teachers from the Chinese school in Iloilo where I taught before I decided to become a freelance writer. The station was not that safe then, with floating barrels supporting visitors – serious balancing act needed.

Now, it is very stable and even child-friendly. Glad to have my parents to pique Akira’s interest to marine life.

DSC_0062_2

I urge you to limit the photo taking and ask questions to the men on duty instead. You will learn many things from them.

DSC_0066_2

My dad can’t just stop asking questions about these creatures like the Giant Grouper. My mom mentioned a Cebuano term for this fish but I forgot about it. The boatman whispered to me that one fisherman was swallowed by this kind of  big fish. Jonah story?

DSC_0025_2

Aside from the mini lesson on marine life, you will get the chance to feed them.  They also have some colorful fish like clownfish ready for the little visitors. These are big bangus ( milkfish). My mom was amazed how big they were.

DSC_0063_2

After feeding, you can continue walking the floating bridge and see unobstructed view of Guimaras’ many islets, see some sea urchins and observe seaweed harvesting. We found a great spot for our family pic but I prefer to have that view while having coffee.

My parents’ secret to happy married life.

DSC_0094_2

A small entrance fee will be asked from you and if you can, give small tips to the staff. So that’s it for now. Island hopping is a must “thing to do in Guimaras” and visiting this marine station should be one of your stops for that fun and learning experience for the family.

Read more Guimaras posts..

Zemkamps Chalet

Scenic San Lorenzo, Guimaras

Wonder’s Farm, Guimaras

Tatlong Pulo: Guimaras’ “Secret” Beach

 

You may also like

3 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.