BFAR-9 turns-over P2.8-M fish cage project to Sindangan fisherfolks

 By: Lenie S. Dadan-OJT

 

DIPOLOG CITY, Mar. 31 (PIA) - The Department of Agriculture and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 9 recently handed two units of Norwegian fish cages worth Php2.8 million to the R.G. Macias Fisherfolk Association in Sindangan town.

The fish cages include a 30-footer fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) boat with engine, accessories and a 14-footer FRP boat which are part of the implementation of the Aquaculture Productivity Enhancement Program under the One DA strategy of Agriculture Sec. William D. Dar.

The entire package comprised of all the requirements necessary for at least one cropping such as commercial feeds, Bangus fingerlings, as well as labor fees. 

The turn-over was headed by DA-BFAR-9 Regional Director Isidro M. Velayo Jr., Association President Mr. Anecito Padayao and Sindangan Mayor Rosendo S. Labadlabad. 

Prior to the turn-over, BFAR-9 conducted a two-day training workshop on the operation, management, and marketing of milkfish in a Norwegian fish cage culture system headed by Mr. Marlon B. Dagandan, chief of the Fisheries Production and Support Services Division, in coordination with the Provincial Fisheries Office of Zamboanga del Norte. 

The trainers included Rhemar C. Bayato, chief of the Capture Fisheries Section; Lenjelben E. Castro, and Jolser B. Signar of the Training Division, who shared essential topics regarding the operation and management of a Norwegian fish cage milkfish culture system to 20 of the core members of the recipient fisherfolk association that participated in the training. 

The training was a requirement of the project to provide the needed skills of the fisherfolk beneficiaries to be self-sustaining.

Norwegian fish cages are one of the most productive mariculture ventures in the province. The project aims to change the lives of the beneficiaries, uplifting them from poverty and marginalization. 

Moreover, it opens a new market source of milkfish, provides jobs or alternative livelihood to fisherfolks, increase production, and complement our country’s aspiration for food security. (RVC/EDT/Lenie S. Dadan-OJT/with reports from BFAR R9)