by Rollin Dave M. Elloren

Misamis Occidental (Dec. 26) – In empowering local fisherfolk and providing sustainable livelihood opportunities, the Bangus Culture in Cage initiative of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 10 (BFAR-10), under the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II, highlights the successful aquaculture efforts of two Fisherfolk Associations (FAs) in Misamis Occidental.

Through the continuous guidance and training provided by BFAR-10, the Hugpong sa mga Mananagat sa Caluya Association (HUGMACA) in Sapang Dalaga harvested a total of 3.5 tons of Bangus (Milkfish), while the Baliangao Fisherfolk Association (BaFA) in Baliangao yielded over 2.88 tons.

The freshly caught milkfish were sold to local consumers and regular fish dealers, generating a gross income of P432,250 for HUGMACA and P313,680 for BaFA, significantly boosting the associations’ financial resources and supporting their ongoing livelihood initiatives.

Accordingly, the project serves as an interim livelihood source, highlighting BFAR-10’s commitment to empowering local fisherfolk communities and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices.

With the successful completion of this year’s first cropping harvest, these associations are set to expand their fishing operations by providing an additional bamboo cage for HUGMACA and input assistance for BaFA, aiming to achieve long-term sustainability in Misamis Occidental’s fishing industry.

Further, BFAR 10-SAAD Program remains committed to supporting similar initiatives across the region, paving the way for sustainable and inclusive development in rural communities.

Writer: 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝗮𝘀/𝗥𝗗𝗠𝗘

Photo Credit: 𝗕𝗙𝗔𝗥 𝟭𝟬 /𝗣𝗣𝗠𝗦𝗢 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗺𝗶𝘀 𝗢𝗰𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹

About DA-BFAR SAAD Phase 2:

The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-BFAR SAAD) Program Phase 2 aims to contribute to poverty reduction and improve the living conditions of vulnerable fisherfolk and their communities by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and support for poor fishing sectors. These interventions intend to complement the DA banner programs and assist beneficiaries in establishing community-based fishery enterprises. The BFAR-SAAD strives to enhance food security and promote economic growth in targeted areas across the Philippines.