CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro (PIA) -- The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) celebrated its 76th Anniversary with its theme “Isang Ahensiyang Nagkakaisa Tungo sa Pagkamit ng Masaganang Pangisdaan at Maunlad na Ekonomiya” to recognize and appreciate the tireless efforts of the bureau in ensuring the sustainability and development of the country's aquatic resources.

Since its inception, the bureau has made significant contributions to the growth of the Philippine fisheries sector and has played a crucial role in supporting the economy, food security, and livelihood of millions of Filipinos.

Based on the data of the Philippine Statistics Authority, the volume of fisheries production was recorded at 991.14 thousand metric tons in the first quarter of 2023. This reflects an increase of 2.0 percent compared with the 971.76 thousand metric tons output in the same period of the previous year.

Supporting the livelihood of Filipino fisherfolk

In line with the celebration, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources - Special Area for Agricultural Development (BFAR-SAAD)-Mimaropa through its Food Production and Livelihood Program (FPL) has successfully implemented a distribution of capture fishing livelihood interventions to Fisherfolk Associations (FAs) in the region.

The selection of beneficiaries was carried out through a Beneficiary Needs Assessment (BNA) as part of the Social Preparation program under SAAD Phase 2, with a focus on targeting the most economically disadvantaged individuals. 

Dominador M. Conde, President of Samahan ng Magsasaka at Mangingisda of Barangay Misong in Pola, Oriental Mindoro says, “Hindi lamang kami tuwang-tuwa, ipinagmamalaki po namin talaga dahil nang kami ay natulungan ng gobyerno ay iniingatan po namin yan sapagkat ang aming objectives ay mapaunlad ang aming kabuhayan.” 

These livelihood interventions mark a significant step towards uplifting the lives of the fisherfolk communities. BFAR-SAAD MIMAROPA remains committed to supporting their journey towards economic prosperity and sustainability in the region.

Through its various programs and initiatives, the DA-BFAR has leveraged its expertise and resources to promote responsible fishing practices, conserve biodiversity, and uplift the livelihoods of coastal communities. (GATS - PIA MIMAROPA)