PANAON, Misamis Occidental – In a strong show of environmental stewardship and community cooperation, the Panaon Fisherfolk Association (PaFA) under the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase 2, of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Region-10 (BFAR-10) spearheaded a coastal clean-up activity on April 30 in the coastal barangays of Punta, Lutao, and Dela Paz, this town. 

The activity was made possible through the active participation and support of various partners, including the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Panaon, the Philippine Maritime Police, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard, students from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) – Panaon Campus, and the Provincial Fisheries Office (PFO) of Misamis Occidental.

The initiative was conducted as part of the program’s thrust to improve beneficiaries’ economic living conditions aimed at promoting environmental awareness and marine ecosystem protection.

During the activity, volunteers from each sector worked hand in hand to collect plastic waste, discarded fishing gear, and other debris littering the shoreline. The clean-up not only helped in restoring the natural beauty of the coast but also underscored the importance of community-driven initiatives in preserving marine resources.

According to the PaFA members, the event was not just a one-time effort but part of a broader commitment to sustainable fishing and environmental conservation. 

As beneficiaries of the SAAD Program, the group recognizes the critical role of healthy coastal ecosystems in sustaining their livelihood and ensuring food security.

The event concluded with a short program acknowledging the efforts of the participants and reinforcing the call for continued environmental advocacy and collective responsibility.

With growing threats to marine biodiversity due to pollution and human activities, such initiatives serve as a reminder of the power of unity and the impact of grassroots action in safeguarding the environment for future generations.

Writer: Marilou L Cenas

Photo Credit: BFAR 10/PPMSO Misamis Occidental, 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.