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Fishermen harvest 8 tons bangus from climate-resilient fish cages in Western Visayas

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- Amid weather disturbances, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources reported a total of eight metric tons of bangus or milkfish harvest in the provinces of Aklan, Iloilo, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental under its five partner associations for its High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Fish Cages Project.

Part of the eight metric tons of bangus harvest under the BFAR's High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Fish Cages Project in Western Visayas. (Photo courtesy of BFAR Region 6)

The five associations include the Bugtong Bato Fisherfolks Association of Ibajay, Aklan, Pajo-Guinmisahan Farmers and Fisherfolk Association (PagFFA) of Concepcion, Iloilo, Katilingban sang Magagmay nga Mangingisda sang Alegria Inc. (KAMMAI) of Sibunag, Guimaras, Hoskyn Fisherfolks Association (HoFA) of Jordan, Guimaras, and the Sampaguita Talacagay Fisherfolk Association (SATAFA) of Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental.

Despite being relatively new to the technology, the fishermen expressed positive feedback after their four-month culture of bangus.

These bangus productions across the region generated a total gross sale of P1,055,461 since December 2023.

KAMMAI president Marilyn Caro, in an interview, expressed her confidence in the durability of the HDPE cage.

"Tungod sa project nga HDPE, wala na kami sang hadlok sa amon fish cage kay mapag-on kag biskan baskog ang balod, indi guid siya maano," said Caro.

(Through the HDPE project, we are no longer afraid with the durability of our fish cage despite the strong currents and waves)

HDPE cages are known for their durability and resistance against typhoons, boasting an extended life expectancy of over 30 years, compared to traditional bamboo cages that can only last up to 1.5 years.

The cages are further expected to bridge the gap in fish production, especially during typhoons or natural disasters.

The fisherfolk of one beneficiary associations together with the BFAR staff during the harvesting of bangus under its climate-resilient fish cages project. (Photo courtesy of BFAR Region 6)

BFAR stated that implementing climate-adaptive initiatives has been one of its primary strategies to sustain fisheries production in Western Visayas, especially during adverse weather conditions caused by climate change.

In addition to the HDPE fish cages, the fisherfolk associations also received chilling tanks, post-harvest kits, feeds, and bangus fingerlings for their initial stock. (AAL/AGP/PIA 6)

About the Author

April Grace Padilla

Information Officer II

Region 6

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