LAGAWE, Ifugao (PIA) — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Cordillera is supporting an innovative farm in reviving the production of “pikaw” (Japanese loach) and “ginga” (edible soft-shelled snail) as alternative livelihood and food for the people.
BFAR-Cordillera Regional Director Lois June Fermin handed the certificate of turn-over of livelihood assistance for the improvement of hatchery of “pikaw” (Japanese loach) to Reny Balanao, owner of the Reny’s Innovative Farm in Jacmal in Aguinaldo, on February 21.
“We are thankful that we have a farmer – scientist like Reny Balanao who initiated the project for the production of “pikaw and “ginga” in the Cordillera primarily in Ifugao to be adopted in suited areas to meet the local market demand and provide alternative source of income,” Fermin said.
The Japanese Weather Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) or locally known as pikaw or yu-yu, was introduced by the Japanese in the Philippines during World War II.
The fish species which has high protein content abound in rice paddies. However, due to commercialization, the pikaw suffered large population decline, and its scarcity led to its current high market value.
The ‘ginga’, based on a study in 2018, is said to be highly endangered.
Fermin assured that aside from the construction materials for the ponds, BFAR will provide the needed technical assistance to Balanao for the success of the project.
“We will help him elevate his status including the technology so that other farmers and fisherfolks in the region will be motivated to adopt the same scheme,” she said.
Balanao shared that the two ponds near his house were previously used for a tilapia production business endeavor. However, it was affected with the introduction of large-scale tilapia production. So, he conceptualized the “pikaw” and “ginga” production project.
He thanked the BFAR and the provincial and municipal government units for the assistance they provided. He hopes that more assistance will be provided to expand the hatchery for more production. (JDP/MBL-PIA CAR, Ifugao)
