As a pivotal policy recommendatory body in fisheries plans and programs, a two-day training aimed at empowering the capacity of the Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Management Council (FARMC) was recently conducted in the Municipality of Tarragona, Davao Oriental.

In an interview, Cheyserr Belvis, BFAR XI Regional FARMC Focal Person, underscored the vital role of FARMC officers, composed of local fishermen, in shaping policies and programs for the management, conservation, protection, and sustainable development of fisheries and aquatic resources.

“BFAR XI is more than willing to extend technical assistance and legal advices to ensure that FARMC are formed according to the true spirit of fisherfolk empowerment,” she added.

The activity was conducted by BFAR XI through the Provincial Fisheries Office of Davao Oriental in collaboration with the Municipal Agriculture Office of Tarragona, Davao Oriental on September 20-21, 2023.

The activity received support from the BFAR XI Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division – Fisherfolk Coordination Unit. The training covered lectures on Coastal Resources Management, the history of FARMC, Guidelines on the Creation and Implementation of FARMC, assessment of their developmental stage, parliamentary procedures, drafting of Internal Rules and Regulations, and an overview of the Fuel Subsidy Program.