𝗠𝗔𝗖𝗔𝗕𝗔𝗟𝗔𝗡, 𝗖𝗮𝗴𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗲 𝗢𝗿𝗼 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 (𝙅𝙪𝙡𝙮 1) – In a sincere ceremony filled with respect and remembrance, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 10 (BFAR-10) posthumously honored its longest-serving Regional Director, Arlene Bibangco Pantanosas, during its 77th Anniversary Celebration, Monday.

From January 2, 2001 to March 8, 2008, Pantanosas left an ingrained history on the region’s fisheries sector, guiding it through significant growth and positive transformation.

𝘼 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙍𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙

The posthumous award, presented during the said occasion, recognized Pantanosas’ dedication and visionary leadership.

Though the agency was haunted by a myriad of challenges when the new millennium had set in, including some limitations in fully implementing the provisions of the Philippine Fisheries Code during her watch, she stood with the law, hence improving the bureau’s capabilities in serving the fishery sector.

Her tenure was characterized by innovative initiatives and nurturing strategic programs that significantly boosted the fisheries industry in Northern Mindanao.

Current Regional Director, Edward B. Yasay, highlighted Pantanosas’ contributions in his speech.

“RD Arlene Pantanosas was a beacon of excellence and dedication. Her leadership not only propelled BFAR-10 to new heights but also laid the groundwork we continue to build upon today,” shared RD Yasay.

The director also elaborated on how Pantanosas became one of his inspirations in public service.

“She was an inspiration that we can only imitate because she set standards so high that we can only aspire to go near to the standards that she had set as a public servant. She’s not only smart but also wise, her name, ‘Arlene Pantanosas’, will always be mentioned as a reference in a very positive light,” added Yasay.

By creating a sense of ownership and responsibility, Pantanosas ensured the sustainability of these projects long after her tenure ended. Under her leadership, numerous programs were launched to improve the livelihoods of local fisherfolk.

One of her notable achievements was the implementation of community-based coastal resource management programs.

𝘼 𝙋𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙇𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙘𝙮

The posthumous award was received by her two daughters, who attended the ceremony to honor her memory. Her daughter, Mabel Ada B. Pantanosas, spoke on behalf of the family, expressing their deep gratitude for the recognition.

“Our mother dedicated her life to the service of BFAR, and the people who depend on the bureau. Even when she was already retired, she always talked about her BFAR experience. We are deeply touched by this incredible honor of this posthumous award, and I’m sure Mom loves this,” enunciated Mabel.

Pantanosas’ daughter remarked on how the bureau has shaped their lives significantly as they witnessed a considerable amount of time seeing their mother making one of the highlighted chapters of her life.

𝘼 𝙇𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙩

Pantanosas’ influence extended beyond her immediate achievements. She was instrumental in forging partnerships with local and international entities, bringing much-needed support and resources to the region.

The bureau looks forward to many more years of growth and success, always guided by the principles of excellence and dedication exemplified by its past leaders while building on the foundations laid by directors like Arlene B. Pantanosas. (𝗖𝗟𝗩𝗶𝗮𝗷𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗲//𝗕𝗙𝗔𝗥-𝟭𝟬)