The head of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support fishermen in the province of Bohol following a visit to check the current situation of the local fishing industry.
On a recent immersion trip, BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig and BFAR Regional Director 7 Mario Ruinata witnessed firsthand the daily fishing activities and engaged the fishermen in conversation to understand their challenges.
This trip is part of the Mangingisdang Direktor (Director of Fisherfolk) Program, which is a BFAR initiative that aims to bring BFAR leadership closer to coastal communities to ensure that national policy is responsive to existing needs.
During his visit, Mr. Salilig, along with the Mayor of the city of Garcia Hernandez Filadelfo Jess III Baja and members of the East Lungsodaan Fisherfolk Association (ELFA), participated in the participation. lambaklad (set-net) harvesting, a Japanese fishing technology promoted by BFAR. The experience allowed Mr. Salilig to assess the effectiveness of sustainable fishing technologies.
He also led a Focus Group Discussion (FGD), where the chief had direct contact with local fishermen to hear about their needs and challenges, as well as the support they need from the national government.
Mr. Salilig then visited the fisheries infrastructure, including the Upland Tilapia Hatchery in Mayana, Jagna. He also inspected the ongoing construction of the Aqua-Business Technology Incubator (ABTI) and Multi-Species Hatchery in Barangay Sinandigan, Ubay town. These stops helped Mr. Salilig to explore the long-term potential of Bohol for the production of fingerlings.
The director also attended the Provincial Farmers and Fishermen’s Month competition at the Provincial Fisheries Office in Tagbilaran City. He ended his visit by presiding over a meeting of the BFAR Region 7 Management Committee at the Central Visayas Multi-Species Nursery and Demonstration Training Center to discuss how the information gathered can be integrated into regional action plans.
“My immersion in the daily realities of our fishermen in Bohol gave me a clear view of what is happening on the ground. This first-hand experience is important as we work to refine regional programs and ensure that our policies at the national level are in line with the real needs of our local fishermen,” said Mr. Salilig.
He expressed his continued support for Bohol fishermen, citing their important role in ensuring food security in the region.
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