In a significant boost to local aquaculture, three fisherfolk associations in Bohol have been recipients of 40,000 milkfish fry, distributed as part of a strategic initiative by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Central Visayas. The distribution took place in two towns, Talibon and Calape, with the aim of enhancing milkfish production and supporting the livelihoods of local fisherfolk.
The Calituban Fishermen Association and Ward 5 Fishermen Association in Talibon each received 10,000 fry, while the Bentig Farmers and Fishermen Association in Calape was allocated 30,000 fry. John Rey Arancana, an information assistant at BFAR-7, emphasized that the initiative is designed to not only increase milkfish production but also to ensure sustainable fish production in the region, thereby improving the economic conditions of the local communities.
In addition to the milkfish fry dispersal, BFAR-7 is gearing up to launch five Fishery and Coastal Resiliency (FishCORE) projects within Fisheries Management Area 9 (FMA 9). These projects, which are awaiting approval from the national office, are expected to commence in the first quarter of the year. The projects, funded by the World Bank, include oyster culture initiatives in Mabini and Candijay, Bohol, valued at PHP700,000 and PHP1 million respectively.
Further enhancing the region’s aquaculture resilience, the projects also encompass bangus culture using high-density polyethylene in Jagna and Guidulman, Bohol, with each project costing PHP2 million. Additionally, a fish pen project using bamboo in Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor, is set to be implemented at a cost of PHP600,000. These initiatives are poised to engage local fisherfolk associations and cooperatives, fostering a more resilient and sustainable fishing industry in the region.