OLUTANGA, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-9 recently hosted the seventh leg of the Dagyaw Open Government Town Hall Meeting in Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay.
The event, themed “Yamang Dagat at Tao: Pangangalaga at Pagpapayabong Tungo sa Kaunlaran ng Bayan,” focused on the sustainable management and development of marine resources for community progress.
Dagyaw, a Hiligaynon word meaning “bayanihan“, captures the essence of the meeting. The initiative aims to inform the public about the government’s efforts in implementing good governance reforms and to listen to the needs and concerns of the people.
Shannie Lou Omar-Ursaiz, OIC-Provincial Fishery Officer of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Zamboanga Sibugay, discussed BFAR-9’s plans and programs. She highlighted programs designed to increase fish production while ensuring the safety and sustainability of marine ecosystems.
Omar-Ursaiz emphasized BFAR’s commitment to empowering fishing communities through training, technological support, and livelihood improvement projects.
“Our mission is to boost production and improve the quality of life for our fisherfolk,” Omar-Ursaiz said.
She also noted that the fish supply in the region is sufficient, ensuring that local markets are adequately supplied and availability remains consistent for consumers.
“Fish sufficiency levels are still high, and we can actually produce and distribute fish to other regions. Zamboanga Peninsula is the number one spot in terms of providing fish supply to other regions. We are food-fish sufficient,” Omar-Ursaiz added.
Armando Mañalac, president of the Olutanga People’s Council and one of the invited reactors, conveyed his gratitude for the support provided by DILG in advancing the progress of their community.
“We are thankful that Dagyaw was held here in Olutanga because this is the start of progress in our community. We commend DILG-9 for their support for our success and development,” Mañalac said.
The endeavor exemplifies collaborative governance through community engagement. Such initiatives not only empower local residents but also pave the way for holistic development in Zamboanga.
The Dagyaw town hall meeting continues to serve as a vital platform for fostering transparency, good governance, and active citizen participation in the country. (EDT/RBI/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)
