FDCThe center was established in February 1985 and was originally named as Seafarming Research and Development Center (SRDC). The center was one of the projects under the now defunct Philippine Human Resources Development Center (PHRDC). Its main thrust then was to upgrade and promote the Philippine oyster industry.

SRDC was created as part of the country’s participation in the ASEAN Human Resources Development Project in cooperation with the Japanese government through Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Under the bilateral agreement, the center became a recipient of technical assistance, expertise and modern facilities and equipment from Japan.

Initially, the center was managed by the Ministry of Human Settlements. In 1987, it was became one of the attached agencies under the Presidential Management Staff (PMS), becoming part of a cluster of agencies dealing with livelihood generation. In June 1994, the center became an integral part of the PMS because of the streamlining policies of the government.

The bilateral agreement lasted until April 1991 (Phase I) and was extended (Phase II) until its termination in September 1996. Under Phase II, the center was tasked to implement or pilot fishery projects for technology transfer and demonstrate viability and feasibility of fishery-related enterprises for livelihood generation. It also continued to standardize technologies on the breeding and culture of finfish (e.g., grouper, siganids) and bivalves (e.g., oysters, clams).

With the termination of the technical cooperation with JICA, the PMS turned over the center to BFAR in May 1997.

The center is located in Bonuan Binloc, Dagupan City, about 250 km north of Manila.

The NFDC has the following functions:

  • Undertake research and development services to the fishery industry;
  • Establish, maintain, and conduct research projects and operate experimental pilot demonstration facilities;
  • Conduct training and provide advisory services to government and private fishery institutions / agencies and other stakeholders in the transfer of technology;
  • Provide technical support in implementing the BFAR National Programs on food security and social reform agenda;
  • Coordinate with concerned national and international agencies on fishery research and development programs;
  • Facilitate and accelerate technology transfer and information dissemination;
  • Perform other functions as may be assigned by the BFAR Director