The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources XI (BFAR XI) successfully concluded the 2025 Farmers and Fisherfolk Month Celebration, honoring the invaluable contributions of farmers and fisherfolk in shaping a food-secure and prosperous Philippines.
This year’s celebration carried the theme: “Makabagong magsasaka at mangingisda, kayo ang susi sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas” (“Modern farmers and fisherfolk, you are the key to a prosperous New Philippines”), highlighting the crucial role of agriculture and fisheries in national development.
A total of 30 fisherfolk leaders from the Davao Region, along with key representatives from BFAR XI, gathered today, May 30, 2025, at the BFAR XI Regional Office in Davao City to mark the occasion.
BFAR XI Regional Director Relly B. Garcia, addressing the assembled leaders, acknowledged the resilience and dedication of fisherfolk in ensuring food security despite the challenges posed by climate change and evolving industry demands.
“Kinikilala natin ang inyong mahalagang papel sa pagbibigay ng pagkain sa hapag ng bawat Pilipino. Sa kabila ng hamon ng panahon at pagbabago ng klima, kayo po ay naging tunay na bayani,” Director Garcia said. He reaffirmed BFAR XI’s commitment to strengthening programs and initiatives that directly benefit fishing communities.
The event also showcased key accomplishments from Regional Fisherfolk Director Virgilio N. Chua’s immersion activities, as presented by Ms. Cheyserr C. Belvis, OIC of the Fisherfolk Coordination Unit. Additionally, the Local Government Unit of Tagum City, Davao del Norte, received a plaque of recognition for its support of the Mangingisdang Direktor Program. To further honor their contributions, fisherfolk leaders were awarded tokens and certificates of appreciation.
Throughout May, BFAR XI spearheaded a series of impactful initiatives through its City/Provincial Fisheries Offices, aimed at uplifting fishing communities. These included: Coastal Cleanup Activities and Scubasurero (Underwater Cleanup), Distribution of livelihood interventions, including fingerlings, fishing gear, and post-harvest equipment, and various fisheries-related training programs conducted across the Davao Region.
As Farmers and Fisherfolk Month 2025 concludes, BFAR XI reaffirms its commitment to developing the fisheries sector into a more sustainable and resilient industry, ensuring that fisherfolk remain active partners in building a stronger, inclusive, and food-secure Philippines.
