REPORT OF : FIRST AID REVIEW OF PROJECT 931-1050 - ICLARM - FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT (INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR LIVING AQUATIC RESOURCES MANAGEMENT) SEPTEMBER 23-24, 1980

This evaluation is based on an onsite review at ICLARM's Manila offices. ICLARM, originally headquartered in Honolulu, was established by a grant from the Rockefeller Foundation in 1975. In response to a request for assistance, A.I.D. in turn requested that ICLARM broaden its geographic scope and establish its headquarters in a developing nation. ICLARM assumed a global charter, moved its headquarters to the Philippines, and reoriented its program to emphasize aquaculture and traditional (artisanal) fisheries. In 1979, it received an $800,000 grant from A.I.D. Other donor funding was obtained shortly thereafter. ICLARM has achieved a number of breakthroughs in fish production. In addition, it has demonstrated the viability of a cooperatively implemented research program rather than functioning strictly as a "bricks and mortar" institution. However, problems have occurred. For example, at Central Luzon State University (where farming systems research with tilapia is being carried out), questions have arisen regarding how much of the University's fishery station can be used by ICLARM for long-term research. ICLARM's current activities fall into five major categories: aquaculture, traditional fisheries, resource development and management, marine affairs, and education and training. One of its strongest functions is its information service. An excellent reference library is being amassed, and a publications subsection is producing several series of studies and reviews. Evaluators recommend that A.I.D. allocate the final increment of its $800,000 three-year grant. Other recommendations include the estabishment of a more comprehensive network of working relationships with research institutions worldwide and that every effort be made to refute the allegation that ICLARM is a US-dominated institutions. This report is attached to a PES (PD-AAG-275-B1).