SAGAY, Camiguin (Nov 11) — To strengthen local aquaculture enterprises and empower the marginalized fisherfolk in the province, the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase 2 of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Region 10 (BFAR-10) turned over two units of 10m x 10m High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) modular cages in Camiguin.

BFAR-10 Fisheries Production and Support Services Division (FPSSD) Chief Aquaculturist Vianney Anthony A. Gapuz led the ceremonial turnover, together with the Provincial Fisheries Office (PFO) in Camiguin, headed by Provincial Fishery Officer Mark Alphonse A. Buniel, and representatives from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Sagay, Guinsiliban, and Mahinog.

The cage, equipped with four 4m x 4m compartments, was awarded to the United Fisherfolk Organization of Cantaan (UFOC) in Guinsiliban, while the other unit was given to the Benoni Fisherfolk Association (BFA) in Mahinog, with each cage amounting to Php 1,040,000.00.

According to Gapuz, the provision of the HDPE modular cages is part of BFAR-10’s effort to modernize aquaculture practices and improve the livelihoods of local fisherfolk.

“These cages will support the culture of high-value fish species and strengthen the province’s efforts toward sustainable fisheries and improved local food production,” he said.

Compared to bamboo structures that typically last for 1 to 5 years, HDPE modular cages have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, making them a more sustainable, cost-efficient, and resilient option for aquaculture operations. These modern cages are also more resistant to harsh weather conditions, reducing maintenance costs and production losses.

Meanwhile, BFA President Elmer Delos Reyes expressed his gratitude for the livelihood support, emphasizing how the provision of HDPE cages will boost their capacity to culture high-value fish species and sustain their income.

“Dako among pasalamat sa SAAD Program Phase 2 ug sa BFAR sa padayon nga suporta. Kini nga proyekto usa ka dakong tabang aron mapalambo ang among produksyon ug masiguro ang among panginabuhian,” Delos Reyes shared.
[We are very thankful to the SAAD Program Phase 2 and BFAR for their continued support. This project is a great help in improving our production and securing our livelihood.]

The ceremonial turnover took place during the Community Learning Forum of Fisherfolk and Delivery of Basic Services in Sagay, Camiguin, organized by the LGU Sagay in collaboration with the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC). 

The event served as a platform for government agencies to provide programs, services, and livelihood assistance to local fisherfolk, highlighting a coordinated effort to support marginalized sectors and promote sustainable, inclusive growth in the province. Attending the activity were representatives from several national and local agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Camiguin Isla Trading (CIT), Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), National Housing Authority (NHA), BFAR, and personnel from the LGU of Sagay.