BAYABAS, Cagayan de Oro City – To give due recognition of the resilience and determination of fisherfolk, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-10 (BFAR-10) conducted a Fisherfolk Wellness Day on May 27 in Barangay Bayabas, this city.

The event, simultaneously held nationwide, is in line with the observance of the Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month, which carries the theme, “Makabagong Magsasaka at Mangingisda, Susi sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas.”

According to BFAR-10 Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division (RFTFCD) Officer-in-Charge Mariane Joy Abiog, the wellness activity aimed to recognize the invaluable contributions of our farmers and fisherfolk in nation-building and in the achievement of food security in the country.

“This initiative serves as a way of giving back to our fisherfolk, not just the individuals themselves, but also their families, including spouses and children—by offering them opportunities to unwind and pamper themselves through free wellness services such as manicures and pedicures, haircuts, and body massages,” she said.

Abiog added that this activity is also an avenue to broaden awareness and encourage support; showcase programs and innovations; inspire youth and the public to participate in efforts to develop the fisheries sector in the region; and strengthen resilience despite the challenges we face, especially those brought about by climate change. 

Meanwhile, this year’s Regional Fisherfolk Director Rolando Escarpe expressed his appreciation for the support extended to fisherfolk and their families.

“Manghinaot kita nga kini nga programa nakahatag kanato og bililhong panglantaw ug benepisyo alang sa paglig-on ug paglambo sa atong pisikal ug mental nga panglawas. Kini nga oportunidad atong gikinahanglan ug angay nato kini tambayayungan, aron molambo ug mahimong lig-on ang atong sektor sa pangisdaan. Sa ingon, makahatag kita og mas dako nga tabang ug suporta sa panginahanglan sa atong komunidad matag adlaw,” Escarpe expressed.

[We hope that this program provides us with valuable insights and benefits to help strengthen and improve our physical and mental well-being. This is an opportunity we need, and we should work together to support wellness programs so that our fisheries sector can grow and become stronger and offer greater assistance and support to the daily needs of our community.]

Adding to the holistic approach of the event, an orientation on Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning was conducted by guest speakers from the Commission on Population and Development (CPD), providing valuable insights on family well-being to our fisherfolk. The Philippine Red Cross-Northern Mindanao Chapter also facilitated a bloodletting activity, while BFAR-10 organized a feeding program for fisherfolk’s children to promote nutrition and physical well-being.
BFAR-10 is consistent in recognizing the work of the fisherfolk as the backbone of the coastal communities through ensuring food security and promoting sustainable fisheries across the region. Through this meaningful initiative, the agency remains true to its goal of empowering our fisherfolk-not only by improving their livelihoods, but by enriching their overall quality of life. ##