MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon โ The Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase 2 in Northern Mindanao, through its Provincial Program Management Support Office (PPMSO) in Bukidnon, recently conducted its first semestral meeting of the Project Management Office (PMO) component at the Kisolon Freshwater Fish Production and Regional Training Center (KFPRRTC) in Sumilao, Bukidnon.
Around 14 fisherfolk leaders and representatives from SAAD-covered associations, along with personnel from the Provincial Fisheries Office and program field implementers in Bukidnon, gathered to discuss updates on project accomplishments and review the programโs implementation.
According to Gekie S. Sy, Bukidnon SAAD Provincial Focal Person, the activity aimed to comprehensively evaluate ongoing initiatives, proactively address emerging challenges, and collaboratively refine strategies to ensure the programโs continued success in its remaining years.
โThrough this activity, we are not only tracking our accomplishments but also deepening our understanding of the on-ground realities experienced by our fisherfolk beneficiaries. It allows us to identify what works, what needs to be improved, and how we can better tailor our efforts to uplift the lives of our partner communities,โ Sy emphasized.
She added that the meeting also served as a platform for fisherfolk leaders to voice their concerns, provide feedback, and suggest innovative solutions based on their firsthand experiences.
Meanwhile, discussions highlighted the beneficiariesโ tilapia production under the SAAD Tilapia Culture in Pond (TCiP) projects, which drastically increased from 31,501.85 kg and 42,110.95 kg in 2023 and 2024 respectively. Data from the Marketing Assistance and Enterprise Development (MAED) were also reviewed to assess the impact and profitability of the livelihood initiatives.
One of the key highlights was the awarding of top-performing Fisherfolk Associations and individual growers for the two year period. Leading the 2023 group was Mibantang FA (Quezon) with 5,400 kg, while the Sampagar Tilapia Growers Association topped in 2024 with 4,108.5 kg. Individual awardees included Alberto Balase (335 kg, 2023) and Ariel Autor (297 kg, 2024), both from Quezon, Bukidnon.
Sy further emphasized the importance of each stakeholderโs commitment and perseverance, noting that these recognitions are more than just awardsโthey are a reflection of hard work, resilience, and the growing success of fisherfolk under the SAAD Program.
โWe hope others are also inspired to continue improving and expanding their aquaculture ventures, contributing not only to their own livelihoods but also to the growth of the local fisheries sector here in the province,โ she said.
Written by: Mark Anthony J. Navarro/RDME
Photo Credit: ๐๐๐๐ฅ ๐ญ๐ฌ PPMSO Bukidnon
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.
