MACABALAN, Cagayan de Oro City – Two fisherfolk associations under the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase 2 emerged as the top 2 finalists for the Search for Outstanding Fisherfolk Associations during the 1st Tilapia Festival, held recently in Capitol Grounds, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

The event, organized by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Region 10 (BFAR-10) through its Provincial Fisheries Office (PFO) of Bukidnon, celebrated the achievements of fisherfolk in advancing tilapia farming in the province.

BFAR-10 Regional Director Edward B. Yasay, together with the Provincial Fishery Officer Gekie S. Sy, handed over the certificate of recognition to the winners.

Under the SAAD Program, the Southpang Fisherfolk Association from Pangantucan, Bukidnon, emerged as the overall winner, while the Mibantang Fisherfolk Association from Quezon, Bukidnon, secured second place in the provincial search.

Both associations were recognized for their strategic leadership, commitment to sustainable practices, and active community engagement, which exemplify the qualities of a truly outstanding fisherfolk association and make a significant impact on the promotion and development of the tilapia industry in Bukidnon.

In an interview, SoFA President Ms. Rachel A. Pasicaran thanked BFAR-10 for the award they received, expressing how it reflects the association’s hard work, commitment, and entrepreneurial spirit.

“Usa kini ka dakong dungog para sa amoang grupo nga napili isip Most Outstanding Fisherfolk. Busa, akong gi-awhag ang uban pang mga grupo nga magpadayon lang gyud kita, buhaton nato ang atong labing maayo, magtinabangay kita, ug maminaw sa mga teknolohiyang ginatudlo sa ato sa BFAR aron mas mapalambo pa nato ang industriya sa pangisdaan dinhi sa atong probinsya,” Pasicaran expressed.

[It is a great honor for our group to be selected as the Most Outstanding Fisherfolk. Therefore, I encourage other groups to continue with our endeavour, let’s do our best, help each other, and pay attention to the technologies being taught to us by BFAR so that we can further improve the fishing industry here in our province.]

Among the festival’s highlights were the tilapia cooking contest, the longest grilled tilapia, the biggest “Pinaka” tilapia competition, and the tallest Lamayo tower challenge, with most of the participants coming from the different Local Government Units of Bukidnon, many of which are SAAD Phase 2 beneficiaries.

The participants showcased their cooking skills and innovations, highlighting the versatility of tilapia as a culinary ingredient that offers numerous cooking options and potential for value-added products.

From traditional recipes to modern twists, the dishes presented during the contest reflected not only creativity and cultural richness but also demonstrated how tilapia can be transformed into premium products such as Tilanggit, Lamayo, Tilapia Tocino, Longganisa, Tempura, Siomai, ice cream, and other ready-to-eat delicacies—opening up broader market opportunities for local communities.

Meanwhile, Jessie Pajo, president of the Romagook Farmers and Fisherfolk Association of Kibawe, Bukidnon, expressed her gratitude for being invited to the event, emphasizing the importance of such platforms in promoting their products and expanding market opportunities.

“Malipayon kami nga nakaapil sa unang Tilapia Festival sa Bukidnon. Usa kini ka pribilehiyo para sa among asosasyon nga mapasundayag ang among mga inobatibong produkto aron kini maila, ug pinaagi usab niining mga aktibidad, mas molapad pa ang among merkado,” she said.

[We are happy to have joined the first Tilapia Festival in Bukidnon. It is a privilege for our association to showcase our innovative products so that these may be recognized, and through activities like this, our market reach can further expand.]

Additionally, the participants also attended the Aquaculture Symposium, Aquaculture Seminar, and Post-Harvest Demonstration to further expand their skills and knowledge regarding tilapia farming, its technologies, best practices, modern techniques in processing and preservation, value-adding methods, and other technical aspects to further develop the economic potential of tilapia farming in Northern Mindanao.

As part of its continued commitment, BFAR-10 ensures that technical assistance, training, and market linkages support remain accessible to all SAAD beneficiaries in the region, empowering them to sustain their operations and grow further.

Writer: RDME

Photo Credit: BFAR 10 RPMSO

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.