by: Patricia Aisabelle Rosales

Libertad, Misamis Oriental  — As part of its continuing commitment to environmental stewardship and the protection of vital coastal ecosystems, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 10 (BFAR-10) planted 1,100 mangrove propagules along the shoreline of Libertad, Misamis Oriental on July 2, 2026.

The activity was conducted as part of the observance of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 79th Anniversary, under the theme “Ahensyang Aksyon Agad :One Heart, One Family, One BFAR.“ 

The mangrove planting was led by BFAR-10 Regional Director Edward B. Yasay, together with Provincial Fisheries Officers (PFOs), Division Chiefs, section heads, unit heads, employees of BFAR-10,and on-the-job student trainees. Joining the initiative were beneficiaries of the BFAR Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Phase 2 Program, demonstrating a shared commitment to protecting and rehabilitating the region’s coastal resources.

“I am truly delighted to see the unity and active participation of our BFAR-10 family in this meaningful activity. As we celebrate BFAR’s 79th Anniversary, this mangrove planting reflects not only our commitment to coastal conservation but also our shared responsibility to protect and preserve our fisheries and aquatic resources for future generations. It reminds us that when we work together as one, our collective actions can create a lasting impact on the environment and the communities we serve. I hope this spirit of unity, teamwork, and environmental stewardship continues beyond our anniversary celebration and inspires us to faithfully fulfill our mandate every day,” Regional Director Yasay emphasized.

Mangroves play a crucial role in maintaining healthy coastal ecosystems by serving as natural barriers against coastal erosion and storm surges, improving water quality, and providing nursery and breeding grounds for fish and other aquatic species. Through this activity, the Bureau continues to support ecosystem restoration efforts that contribute to sustainable fisheries, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation.

Through the active participation of BFAR-10 personnel and partner beneficiaries, the Bureau reinforced its commitment to environmental stewardship, promoting responsible resource management and encouraging shared responsibility in the conservation and sustainable management of coastal ecosystems. 

Atty.Dennie L. Caminos,  Head of the Human Resource Management Unit (HRMU) and lead coordinator of the activity, emphasized that the mangrove planting was intentionally included in the anniversary celebration in line with the Bureau’s societal goal through its ecological sector by improving the management of fish stocks and aquatic habitats. 

“As we celebrate BFAR-10’s 79th Founding Anniversary, we wanted to make the occasion more meaningful by undertaking an activity that reflects the very heart of our mandate—protecting and conserving our coastal and aquatic resources. The mangrove planting activity was included not only to contribute to the rehabilitation of coastal ecosystems but also to reinforce our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Seeing employees from different divisions and sections actively participate truly embodied our anniversary theme. It demonstrated that regardless of our individual roles, we are united by a common purpose of serving the fisheries sector and safeguarding our natural resources. Every mangrove propagule planted symbolizes our shared responsibility and collective commitment to preserving these ecosystems for future generations,” Atty. Caminos said.  

As BFAR celebrates its 79th year of dedicated public service, the Bureau remains dedicated in pursuing programs and initiatives that promote sustainable fisheries development, conserve aquatic resources, and strengthen partnerships with stakeholders. Guided by the theme “One Heart, One Family, One BFAR,” BFAR-10 continues to foster a culture of unity, environmental responsibility, and service excellence for the benefit of present and future generations.(PACR)