ROXAS CITY, Capiz (PIA) — The Capiz provincial government thru the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) has conducted the first fisheries summit in celebration of the 61st Fish Conservation Week.
More than 400 fisherfolk and fisherfolk organizations in the province, together with various national and local government agencies, municipal coastal local government units, non-government organizations, academe, and private exhibitors convene during the two-day Capiz Fisheries Summit 2024 on Sept. 19 to 20, at the El Circulo Convention Center in Roxas City.
Department of Science and Technology Regional Director Engr. Rowen G. Gelonga stated that modernizing the fishing vessels and using machinery will help improve the fishing industry.
“We are happy to inform you that the first ever mobile modular food processing facility is hosted by the Capiz State University (CapSU) and this facility is intended, primarily for farming oysters which is also the primary commodity sang Capiz, it’s the first one in the Philippines,” Gelonga added.
He also said that the DOST will ensure a contribution to the industrialization of Capiz as the seafood capital of the Philippines.
Further, Governor Fredenil Castro acknowledged the importance of preserving the environment and protecting the sea wealth of the province.
“As you may know, we are already taking care of our fisherfolk in Brgys. Punta Cogon, Cogon, Baybay, Dumolog, and Barra, in Roxas City, and sooner or later if God permits, we will be able to take care of all fisherfolk around and in the coastal areas in the province of Capiz,” the governor added.
Castro also said that the provincial government will organize more fisherfolk organizations and further provide livelihood for all the fisherfolk along the coastal areas of the province of Capiz.
He added that aside from feeding the stomachs of the fisherfolk, it is also more important to feed and enrich the seas.
In addition, CapSU Director for Research Dr. Leo Andrew B. Biclar said that it is imperative that the national and local government units, government organizations, the fisherfolk organization industry, and the academe to ensure the long-term viability of our fisheries sector working together.
“By working together we can build a sustainable future for our province and ensure future-ready fisherfolk communities. Let us strive to protect and preserve Capiz maritime heritage for future generations. By working together we can ensure that our province’s rich marine resources remain a source of livelihood sustenance and aspirations for the future generations,” he noted.
Biclar also said that through research extension and community engagement initiatives, the CapSU is trying to contribute to the conservation and sustainability of our sea resources.
“We will implement programs promoting sustainable fishing practices, improving local fishermen’s market access, and protecting our marine environment. We will also continue to invest with the help of our funding agencies and agencies in research and development to address the challenges in fishery sectors,” Biclar added. (AGP/PLF/PIA Capiz)
