CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro (PIA) -- Four fisherfolk associations in Calapan City recently celebrated their first windfall bangus (milkfish) harvest, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Mimaropa and the Provincial Fisheries Office.

The successful harvest yielded 453.5 kilos of high-quality bangus, marking a significant milestone for the city’s aquaculture sector.

The four fisherfolk associations involved in the harvest are the Hanay ng Yumayabong at Umuunlad na Mangingisda (Hayuma), Bantayan, Alagaan, Respetuhin, Ugaliing Ingatan, Yamang Likas sa Atin ay Nakalaan (Baruyan); Samahan ng Mangingisda sa Mahal ng Pangalan (Sama sa MNP), and Buo at Nagkakaisang Alalay sa Samahan ng Ibaba East (Banamie).

The harvest took place at Caluangan Lake.

Months of hard work and dedication by the fisherfolk, coupled with the guidance from BFAR, culminated in a bountiful harvest of 453.5 kilos of bangus, which not only signifies economic progress for the participating associations but also underscores the potential for sustainable aquaculture practices in Calapan City.

The newly-harvested bangus will be made available in local markets, providing residents with access to fresh and locally-produced seafood.

The surplus will be utilized for future projects or distributed to nearby communities, ensuring that the benefits of this initiative are widespread.

BFAR and the fisherfolk associations are now looking forward to further expanding their collaboration, with plans to replicate this success in other areas of Calapan and neighboring municipalities.

Present in the activity are Calapan Mayor Marilou Morillo to show her support, BFAR Mimaropa provincial fisheries officer Brenda Labiaga, Fisheries Management Office (FMO) Calapan officer Stephen Calayan, and the members of Calapan City Bantay Dagat. (JJGS/PIA Mimaropa - Oriental Mindoro)

*Banner photo courtesy of BFAR Mimaropa