Section 82Sec./Art. 82

Creation of a National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI). - In recognition of the important role of fisheries research in the development, management, conservation and protection of the country's fisheries and aquatic resources, there is hereby created a National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI).

The Institute shall form part of the National Research and Development Network of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

The Institute, which shall be attached to the Department shall serve as the primary research arm of the BFAR. The overall governance of the Institute shall be vested in the Governing Board which shall formulate policy guidelines for its operation. The plans, programs and operational budget shall be passed by the Board. The Board may create such committees as it may deem necessary for the proper and effective performance of its functions. The composition of the Governing Board shall be as follows:

(a) Undersecretary for Fisheries - Chairman

(b) BFAR Director - Vice Chairman

(c) NFRDI Executive Director - Member

(d) PCAMRD Executive Director - Member

(e) Representative from the academe - Member

(f) four (4) representatives from the private sector who shall come from the following subsectors: - Members

Municipal Fisherfolk

Commercial Fishing Operator

Aquaculture Operator

Post-Harvest/Processor

The NFRDI shall have a separate budget specific to its manpower requirements and operations to ensure the independent and objective implementation of its research activities.