MAGSAYSAY, Lanao del Norte – As part of the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II thrusts to improve the economic conditions of marginalized fisherfolk, the Tipaan Magsaysay Farmers and Fisherfolk Association (TIMAFFA) reaped a total of 1,943 kilograms of tilapia from their Tilapia Culture in Pond (TCiP) project on April 2, this town.

Cultured in a 3,000-square-meter pond, the association managed to achieve an average body weight of 215.4 grams per tilapia, or at 5 pieces a kilo.

For most of its members, the TCiP project depicts their hard-earned accomplishment, as it generated a total revenue of Php106,372.

Having shown promise as a viable source of livelihood in their community, Mr. Marlon Atay, an association member, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the project.

“Dako gyud akong kalipay niining proyekto, ilabi na sa naabot sa among grupo karon, kay nakita nako nga kini makahatag gyud ug saktong panginabuhian sa among komunidad,” he conveyed.”
[I am happy with this project, especially with what our group has achieved, because I can see that it will really provide a good source of livelihood for our community.]

Prior to the harvest, the association took proactive steps to secure buyers and prospect market outlets, ensuring they could optimize profit margins and promote seamless distribution of fresh tilapia within local markets.

The association sold their yield directly to buyers in Baroy Daku, Baroy and some to the neighboring communities in the province at a competitive price of 110-130 pesos per kilogram, depending on size.

This initiative is a result of the group’s strong entrepreneurial drive and determination, in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) and BFAR, as they continue to make strides toward financial independence.

Moreover, the project has not only brought immediate economic benefits but also opened opportunities for growth, with the association eyes to explore new aquaculture methods and sustainable practices to increase productivity and ensure the long-term profitability of the project.

Additionally, the association also committed to continue to collaborate and cooperate with the Bureau through the Provincial Fishery Office of Lanao del Norte, and promised to contribute to the success and prosperity of the SAAD program and its objectives.

In response, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-10, through its SAAD Program, assured to provide technical support, including inputs for their TCiP’s next cropping such as but not limited to post-harvest materials, training on fish farming practices, water quality management, and marketing strategies for this year.

Writer: Mary joy Valiente

Editor: Al jun B. Magamano/ RDME

Photo Credit: BFAR 10/PPMSO Lanao del Norte, Province

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.