Sapang Dalaga, Misamis Occidental — The Hugpong sa mga Mangingisda sa Caluya Association (HUGMACA) once again showcased the power of unity and self-reliance with the official launch of its self-funded bangus (milkfish) cage culture project on August 20, 2025. The initiative was made possible through the reinvestment of income from previous interventions under the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Special Area for Agricultural Development (BFAR-SAAD) Program Phase II.

As part of the initiative, the association purchased 10,000 pieces of Milkfish fingerlings and were stocked on August 20 in HUGMACA’s designated 10m x 10m bamboo fish cage.

With a culture period of four to five months, the association expects the bangus to reach marketable size by year-end or early next year.

Through this venture, HUGMACA is optimistic about generating additional income to further strengthen its capacity as a fisherfolk organization. By reinvesting gains from SAAD projects into a new aquaculture enterprise, the association demonstrates both accountability and sustainability. 

HUGMACA’s president expressed confidence that the project will succeed with the help of God and the collective unity of its members.

“Mapasalamaton kami sa suporta ug mga oportunidad nga gihatag sa BFAR-10 SAAD nga nakatabang kanamo aron makab-ot kini nga lebel sa pagsalig isip usa ka organisasyon. Karon, among gipakita nga kaya namo nga mapadayon ug maski mapalapdan pa ang among mga panginabuhi pinaagi sa among kaugalingong paningkamot,” Gordionez said. 

(We are grateful for the support and opportunities provided by BFAR- 10 SAAD, which helped us reach this level of confidence as an organization. Today, we are showing that we can sustain and even expand our livelihood activities through our own efforts.)

Meanwhile, Virginia P. Valde, Provincial Fishery Officer of Misamis Occidental, commended the association’s achievement saying,  “This is the direction we want all SAAD beneficiaries to take. To use the interventions as stepping stones toward long-term sustainability. HUGMACA’s project is proof that when government support is maximized, fisherfolk organizations can stand on their own and thrive.”

With an estimated survival rate of 80%, the 10,000 fingerlings are projected to yield around 8,000 bangus, weighing approximately 3.2 to 4 tons. At the current farm-gate price of Php 150 per kilo, this could generate a gross income of Php 480,000 to Php 600,000, providing significant returns for the association’s members and ensuring a steady fish supply in the local market.

Additionally, under the SAAD Program’s 2025 budget, HUGMACA is set to receive another 10m x 10m bamboo fish cage, along with inputs for milkfish culture, including 10,000 more fingerlings and  commercial feeds for one cropping period.

These interventions are expected to double HUGMACA’s production capacity, reflecting the association’s steady progress toward sustainable growth, self-sufficiency, and enterprise-driven development, while remaining steadfast in its mission to build a resilient and sustainable future for its members and to inspire other fisherfolk organizations across Misamis Occidental.