The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) XI kicked off the 61st Fish Conservation (FishCon) Week on Monday, with the theme “Sama-sama Tungo sa Maunlad at Likas-kayang Pangisdaan sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
The week-long celebration aims to raise awareness about the importance of marine conservation and the crucial role of fisheries in the country’s economy and food security.
Relly B. Garcia, OIC Regional Director of BFAR XI, emphasized the theme’s message of progress and sustainability working hand-in-hand.
“This year’s theme underscores the need for unity across all sectors, particularly our fisherfolk communities,” Director Garcia said.
The opening ceremony began with a thanksgiving mass, and a torch-lighting ceremony to formally commence the BFAR XI Fish Conservation Week and Sports Festival. The event also featured a Seafood Kadiwa ng Pangulo, showcasing local fishery and agricultural products.
Throughout the week, BFAR XI, in collaboration with local government units, fisherfolk organizations, and stakeholders, will host a range of activities, including:
•Coastal clean-up activities in the municipalities of Pantukan, Davao de Oro, Baganga and San Isidro in Davao Oriental, aimed at removing marine debris and promoting a clean ocean environment
•Distribution of fishing gears to pre-identified and validated beneficiaries, supporting their livelihood and sustainable fishing practices
•Orientation on Aquatic Wildlife Transported through Ports of Davao
•Orientation on the Issuance of Aquatic Wildlife Special Use Permit (AWSUP) and Gratuitous Permit
•Orientation on Marine Fish Cage Operations in San Isidro, Davao Oriental, promoting responsible aquaculture methods
•Fisheries Technicians’ Forum in Mati, Davao Oriental, providing training and knowledge exchange for fishery technicians
•Oath-taking ceremony of Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (MFARMC) Officers in San Isidro, Davao Oriental
•Mangrove planting activities at Brgy. Aplaya, Hagonoy, Davao del Sur, and Pantukan, Davao de Oro contributing to coastal protection and biodiversity conservation
To instill camaraderie among employees, BFAR XI organizes a sports festival dubbed Fishlympic 2024, and Ginoo at Binibining Hiyas ng Pangisdaan 2024.
These activities aim to strengthen, empower fisherfolk communities, and safeguard the fisheries and aquatic resources.
