𝗝𝗲𝘃𝗝𝗲𝘃 𝗟. 𝗠𝗮𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲

In support of its ongoing efforts to boost regional aquaculture and improve the supply of quality milkfish fry across Mindanao, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources –  Region 10 (BFAR10) – Benoni Experimental Station (BES) successfully transported 30 carefully selected and conditioned Bangus (Chanos chanos) broodstock to the Sultan Naga Dimaporo Multi-Species Marine Hatchery (SND-MMH) in Lanao del Norte on July 10–11, 2025. Prior to the transport of the broodstock, the parameters were monitored to ensure their optimal condition upon arrival.

Using oxygenated plastic tubes and maintaining cold temperatures throughout the journey, the team followed proper procedures to ensure the safe and healthy transport of the live fish. When they arrived at the Sultan Naga Dimaporo Multi-Species Marine Hatchery (SND-MMH), the broodstock were slowly introduced to acclimatize  to their new environment and prior to stocking in the recovery tanks. Despite the technical intervention, two (2) milkfish broodstock were recorded dead due to stress and changes in the environment; the carcasses were properly buried on-site.

Mark Alphonse A. Buniel, OIC–PFO Camiguin and BES, said that the transport activity of fish  is a crucial part of the Bureau’s  initiative to ensure a steady supply of high-quality fry and support sustainable fish farming across the region. He added, “This effort supports BFAR’s mission to promote sustainable aquaculture and improve local livelihoods.”

The inter-regional broodstock deployment not only highlights BFAR’s commitment to resource sharing and collaboration among its facilities but also reflects the agency’s broader vision for a more resilient and sustainable aquaculture sector. By strengthening partnerships and streamlining efforts across regions, BFAR aims to boost fish seed production and contribute meaningfully to long-term food security and livelihood support for communities across Mindanao.