SANTA MARCELA, Apayao – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Cordillera (BFAR-CAR) conducted a Harvest Field Day for the Aquapark Fish Cage Project under the “Sagip Saka” program at Bacut Lake on June 10, 2024.
The program aims to conserve, protect, and sustainably develop fisheries and aquatic resources in local communities, alleviate poverty by providing supplementary livelihood to fisherfolk, improve aquaculture productivity within ecological limits, and maximize the use of offshore and deep-sea resources.
The event was attended by officials including BFAR-CAR Regional Director Lilibeth L. Signey, OIC Provincial Fisheries Officer Apayao Mr. Meynard V. Domingo, active members of the local associations, and other stakeholders.
The harvested fish were marketed to the nearby communities, with prices ranging from P120 to P150 per kilo, depending on size. Additionally, registered fishpond owners in Santa Marcela and Flora received distributions of tilapia fingerlings.
DA-BFAR-CAR plans to hold another Harvest Field Day at Kapayanan Dam in Flora, Apayao, later in June 2024. With the continued support of the BFAR-CAR program, both communities anticipate increased production, contributing to a more stable source of income for local fishermen. By Michelle Acantilado