by Amor Ledon T. Bajarla

MACABALAN, Cagayan de Oro City – In paying tribute to the invaluable contributions of local farmers and fisherfolk to the region’s economy and food security, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-10 (BFAR-10) launched the month-long Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month (FFM) celebration earlier today, 5 May 2025 at the BFAR-10 compound.

The festivities began with a motorcade, showing the continued support of the BFAR-10 and its personnel in celebration of the FFM.

In the opening program, one of the highlights was the poignant video presentation, “Tribute to Fisherfolk”, where the fishers in the region were lauded for their hard work, resilience, and dedication. The event acknowledged the vital role of fisherfolk in sustaining livelihoods and ensuring food availability for communities across Northern Mindanao. Heartfelt testimonials from fisherfolk themselves resonated deeply with the audience, recognizing both the challenges and rewards of their profession.

Director Edward Yasay on his opening message, re-echoed the sentiments, “Daghang salamat sa inyong mga nabuhat ug natabang ug kami nanghinaot nga magpadayon ang kining inyong panghilambigit ug pagtimbayayong para atong makab-ot ang tiunay nga kaugmaran dili lang sa Region 10 but of course apil na ang tibuok nasod.”

[“Thank you very much for what you have done and helped (in the sector), we hope that your involvement and cooperation will sustain so that we can achieve genuine development not only in Region 10 but in the entire nation as well”.]

Further, a significant part of the event was the symbolic turnover and acceptance of the key of responsibility and oathtaking of Rolando Escarpe, a fisherfolk leader from Cagayan de Oro City as this year’s Regional Fisherfolk Director (RFD). This event underscored BFAR-10’s commitment to empowering fisherfolk and ensuring their active participation in policy-making and resource management. 

RFD Escarpe accepted with pride the honor from his appointment, “Today, I was also given a responsibility that may be short in time, but it is the greatest responsibility that I have been [given] since I started holding and leading organizations and associations.”

In her inspirational message, Nena Salon, fisherfolk leader of the winner of the CY2023 Search for Outstanding Fisheries and Aquatic Management Council FARMC in Region 10, encouraged the audience when she said, “remember, the race is not for the swift, nor the battle for the strong, nor the brave to the wise, nor riches to the men with skill, but to time and opportunities.”

The opening ceremony was followed by a ribbon-cutting and the opening of the Aqua Fair, which showcased a diverse array of fresh catch, processed seafood products, and aquaculture technologies. This event provided a platform for fisherfolk to directly market their goods and interact with potential buyers, promoting the local fisheries industry. The fair was a testament to the region’s rich aquatic resources and the industry’s potential for growth.

During the opening program, BFAR-10 also launched the “Gawad Pangisdaan sa Amihanang Mindanaw”. The search is one of the highlights of the FFM where the best Municipal FARMC and the best Community Fish Landing Center (CFLC) will be recognized during the closing ceremony on May 30, 2025. Select LGUs will also be given plaques of appreciation during the same event.

Throughout the month of May, BFAR-10 will conduct major activities aimed at further empowering and supporting local fisherfolk such as the Fisherfolk Wellness Day and Fisherfolk Summit. Other activities include skills training, workshops on sustainable fishing practices, coastal clean-up drives, community outreach programs. The celebration serves as a timely reminder of the crucial role of these dedicated individuals and the need for continued support towards a thriving and sustainable fisheries sector in the region.

The month-long celebration is expected to raise awareness and appreciation for the important role of fisherfolk in the region’s economy and food security, ultimately contributing to a more food-secure society.