BFAR XI officially launched its annual Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month celebration today. With this year’s theme, “Pagpupugay sa mga Masisipag na Magsasaka at Mangingisda na Katuwang Tungo sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas,” the bureau once again highlights the unsung heroes of the food sector: the fisherfolk.

During the ceremony, OIC-Regional Director Relly B. Garcia addressed fisherfolk leaders from 23 Coastal Cities and Municipalities’ Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (C/MFARMC). He highlighted the outstanding efforts of farmers and fisherfolk in providing for the country’s food security.

“Laging alalahanin na sa bawat butil ng bigas at isda sa ating hapag ay produkto ng kanilang sipag at tiyaga. Bigyan natin sila ng nararapat na pagkilala at tiyakin na naririnig ang kanilang mga boses sa lahat ng antas ng pamahalaan. Ating pagtibayin ang suporta at serbisyo para sa ating mangingisda,” Dir. Garcia said.

A key moment in the event was the swearing-in of Mr. Riel Abellana from the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte, as the new Regional Fisherfolk Director (RFD). The symbolic turnover of the fisherman’s paddle, or “bugsay,” marked the transition of leadership.

In his acceptance speech, RFD Abellana expressed his commitment to representing the fisherfolk. “Matud pa sa atong panultihon nga sa matag similya nga gitanom, sa matag pukot nga nahulog, ang kahulugan niini atong gipangtanom ang kalig-on og kusog sa atong nasud (With every seed sown and every net cast, we are planting the strength and power of our nation),” RFD Abellana said.

Mr. Abellana will serve as the Regional Fisherfolk Director for the entire month of May to represent the fisherfolk’s interests in BFAR XI’s regular operations. The program aims to strengthen closer collaboration between the government and stakeholders.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, a short open forum was held to discuss issues and concerns raised by the C/MFARMC Chairs in their respective areas. BFAR XI also provided free medical checkups and medicines for fisherfolk in coordination with Dr. Sharlene L. Tan of the City Health Office and Barangay Health Workers from Mini Forest Health Center, Davao City.

Meanwhile, the Seafood Kadiwa ng Pangulo event at the BFAR XI compound showcased various agri-fishery products from local farmers and fishers.

Throughout the month, BFAR XI has organized a series of activities including an Orientation on Basic Life Support and First Aid, Bloodletting Activity, Field Visits by the RFD, and a Turnover of Livelihood Projects, among others.