𝗠𝗔𝗖𝗔𝗕𝗔𝗟𝗔𝗡, 𝗖𝗮𝗴𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗲 𝗢𝗿𝗼 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 (𝙅𝙪𝙡𝙮 02) – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 10 (BFAR-10) marked its 77th anniversary by reflecting on the bureau’s storied past, honoring a late leader, and showcasing the talents of its employees, yesterday here.

Went by the BFAR acronym, this year’s theme dubbed, (B)oost, (F)ulfill, (A)chieve, (R)ise, conveys the bureau’s aim to boost fisheries production, fulfill its mandate with integrity, professionalism, and utmost dedication, achieve milestones and rise above challenges.

In this region’s celebratory program, the BFAR-10 first conducted a Holy Catholic Mass to appreciate the guidance and blessings that have steered the bureau toward its known success.

Also, in recognition of the contributions of the late Regional Director Arlene B. Pantanosas, the bureau presented her daughters the honor of a posthumous award as a gesture of gratitude for her dedication as the longest-serving regional director of the bureau.

With this, BFAR-10 regional director, Edward B. Yasay, recalled the bureau’s humble beginnings and how it blossomed throughout the years.

“Always we make our past, the good and the bad side of it, as a reference for us to become better public servants and more importantly, better human beings,” expressed RD Yasay.

Being the chief executive, RD Yasay, thanked the bureau’s working force, showing his utmost gratitude for their continued cooperation and support for the marginalized fisherfolk of the region.

Meanwhile, adding a joyful note to the celebration, the BFAR-10 employees participated in a chorale group singing contest of the ‘Bagong Pilipinas Hymn’, as a way to amplify a renewed sense of patriotism.

Participants from the Fisheries Production and Support Services Division (FPSSD), teamed with the Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division (RFTFCD), won the singing contest against seven other groups and received a hefting P5,000 cash prize.

The anniversary celebration also featured a mental health awareness symposium in a progressive move to prioritize employee well-being with expert Ma. Dolores Mercado, Nurse V of the Department of Health Center for Health Development (DOH CHD) in Northern Mindanao.

To further promote teamwork, camaraderie, and solidarity among the participants present in the event, the bureau also conducted a round of classic parlor games that stimulated the employees’ physical coordination and competence.

Finance and Administrative Section head, Amor J. Gapuz, in her speech, remarked that these activities will help foster unity and cooperation in the workforce in a fun way.

“As we celebrate our past achievements, we also look forward to the future with hope and determination. We will continue to innovate, collaborate, and strive towards our goals, always guided by the principles that have brought us this far as one BFAR family,” she reminded.

Wrapping up BFAR’s 77th Anniversary celebration, the management assembled a ‘Boodle Fight’ salo-salo for all its employees to feast together. (𝗖𝗟𝗩𝗶𝗮𝗷𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗲//𝗕𝗙𝗔𝗥-𝟭𝟬)