Fourteen elected fisherfolk leaders, recognized as Barangay Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (BFARMC) Chairpersons, assembled on July 17-18, 2024, for a two-day FARMC Strengthening activity.

Facilitated by BFAR XI in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Governor Generoso, the activity aimed to amplify the voices of small fisherfolk in decision-making within the fisheries industry.

Jefferson Montera, BFAR XI Provincial Fisheries Officer (PFO) for Davao Oriental, underscored the significance of empowering the FARMC in Governor Generoso.

“Unsaon nalang ang 70% population diri na nagsalig sa atong kadagatan kung walay fisherfolk council na magprotekta sa ilahang katungod. Kamo nga FARMC ang angayan na murecommend sa polisiya ug ordinansa nga muprotekta sa kadagatan aron masustainar (Translation: How will the 70% of the local population who depend on our oceans survive without a fisherfolk council to protect their rights? It is crucial for the FARMC, to recommend fisheries policies and ordinances to ensure the sustainability of our seas),” Montera said.

During the event, Municipal Mayor Hon. Juanito C. Inojales addressed the BFARMC, acknowledging their dedication. He affirmed that the LGU of Governor Generoso will extend full support to FARMC activities, including the provision of honorarium for the protection and conservation of fisheries resources.

Participants received training in parliamentary procedures, resolution drafting, and informative sessions on the status of Marine Ecosystem and Resources, and the Philippine Fisheries Code (RA 8550 as amended by RA 10654) to effectively address their challenges, issues, and concerns.

Key officials in attendance included Hon. Perlito M. Tanduyan, the Committee Chair on Agriculture and Fisheries of SB Governor Generoso, Narciso M. Roscom, the Municipal Agriculture Officer, and Jefferson L. Montera, the BFAR XI PFO for Davao Oriental.

BFAR XI and the LGU of Governor Generoso remain committed to collaborating with FARMC to ensure their voices are heard, addressing relevant issues for food security and sustainable fisheries resource management.