Sweet, passionate, and quietly resilient — these are the words that best describe Jenely B. Haloot, an AgSurnon scholar-graduate who finds joy in life’s simple pleasures and purpose in a profession many often overlook. A lover of movies, music, dancing, and books, Jenely’s world is a beautiful mix of creativity, heart, and determination.

Behind her gentle smile is someone driven by a cause greater than herself — the hope of a better, more sustainable future for the country’s fisheries. She’s one of many young Filipinos motivated to prove that the fisheries sector is far more than ‘isda-isda lang’. It’s about food security, community livelihood, marine biodiversity, and national progress.

Jenely didn’t always know she would end up in the field of fisheries. It wasn’t until she passed the DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) scholarship that she felt a spark — a quiet assurance that this was where she was meant to be. “That was the turning point,” she recalls. “I realized this path wasn’t just an opportunity, it was my purpose.”

Inspired by her family, who believed in her unconditionally, Jenely began to embrace the field of fisheries with open arms. She saw it not just as a profession but as a vital part of the nation’s future — one that contributes to food security, sustainability, and the protection of marine resources.

When asked about her favorite marine creature, Jenely quickly names corals. “They’re not just beautiful; they’re essential,” she explains. “Corals are my favorite marine creatures because they offer shelter to countless aquatic species and bring vibrant beauty to the marine ecosystem.”

Much like corals — strong, resilient, and life-giving — Jenely aspires to become a steady presence in the industry, helping build thriving coastal communities and protecting marine life for generations to come.

Like most students, Jenely’s college journey was filled with ups and downs. One movie that mirrors her college life is “When Life Gives You Tangerines,” a film that reminds her of the importance of resilience, hope, and humor amidst challenges.

One of the toughest hurdles she faced was adjusting to online learning during the pandemic. “It was one of my struggles because you have to learn on your own, and I’m a visual learner,” she admits. But even during those isolating times, she found comfort in her hobbies — watching movies, reading books, and listening to her favorite artists like Coldplay, Taylor Swift, Post Malone, and beloved OPM classics.

And while some found strength in grand gestures, Jenely found peace in small rituals. A fun fact? She can’t sleep without her mosquito net. It’s a simple comfort, but one that connects her to home and gives her a sense of security.

Jenely is candid about her struggles. “I fell many, many times,” she says, with a quiet laugh. But every setback, every misstep was a lesson. It was through these experiences that she built the resilience she carries today. She credits her family and friends for their unwavering support, providing not only encouragement but also the resources she needed to succeed.

As she prepares for her next step, Jenely carries with her big hopes for the future of the fisheries sector in Caraga and the Philippines.

“I hope the fisheries industry will rise and prove that it’s not merely ‘isda-isda lang.’ We are future researchers, innovators, and changemakers — and our voices deserve to be heard,” she declares.

Jenely envisions a future where young fisheries professionals are empowered to lead conversations about marine conservation, sustainable fishing practices, and coastal community development. A future where their knowledge and expertise are valued as crucial contributions to national development.

At the heart of it all is a simple yet powerful mantra that Jenely lives by: “While I breathe, I hope. While I hope, I live.”

It’s a reflection of her quiet strength — a reminder that as long as there’s breath, there’s a reason to keep going, to keep dreaming, and to keep fighting for a better tomorrow. (Andy T. Ordoña, Information Officer, DA-BFAR Caraga)