TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) -- A total of five metric tons of marketable-size tilapia was harvested by the beneficiaries of the circular High-Density Polyethylene Cage Project of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) during the partial harvesting as a result of the first cycle of culture on April 11.

Dr. Angel Encarnacion, regional director of BFAR, said the bureau stocked a total of 144, 000 pieces of tilapia fingerlings during its first cycle of operation.

Encarnacion said that the fisheries bureau has continuously redefined its strategies for increasing fisheries production while at the same time maximizing the utilization of resources. 

“The circular high-density polyethylene cage projects are significant in aquaculture development because they provide a versatile and durable solution for fish farming, offer economic benefits and environmental advantages, and contribute to the sustainable growth of the aquaculture industry,” he added.

During the awarding, the 329 members comprising the seven fisherfolk associations expressed positive feedback on the performance of the newly introduced aquaculture production system. 

Earlier, in its aim to revitalize the Tilapia industry in Magat Dam among fish cage operators, the fisheries bureau awarded 12-units of circular HDPE fish cage to seven fisherfolk associations in the municipalities of Ramon and Cordon, Isabela. 

It was installed in a 20-meter water-depth production area and was properly zoned with an approximate five-meter distance from each unit to avoid competition for natural food and ease of navigation.

Operations and management of the cage project are co-shared by members of the Magat Lakeside Farmers and Fishpond Operators Association (MALAFFOA), Magat Riverside Fisherfolk Association (MAGARFA), and Magat Dam Mangalap Fisherfolk Association (MADAMFA) of Ramon, Isabela, and the Taliktik Magat Dam Fisherfolk Association (TMDFA), Magat Dam Dallao Fisherfolk Association (MADADALFA), Women’s Association of Taliktik Magat Dam (WATMD), and Cordon Mushroom Corn/Cassava Vermicompost Organic Association (MCCVCOA) of Cordon, Isabela. 

“Given that our climate is changing, the Magat fishing community will profit immensely from the implementation of this project. Through this project, the region will have an abundant supply of fish at a reasonable price for consumers. This project will provide funding and provide an extra revenue stream to the associations. We are incredibly thankful to BFAR for this project. This is a prime example of how the government supports the fishing sector by granting equitable access to programs and initiatives that promote welfare and development. Indeed, it has a beneficial impact on the community.,” said Mel Victorino Valentin, president of MALAFFOA. 

HDPE cages are widely used because of the versatility of the materials used, their durability and resistance against typhoons, and their relative simplicity in the performance of various farming operations, boasting an extended life expectancy of over 30 years compared to traditional bamboo cages that can only last up to 1.5 years. These cages are expected to bridge the gap in fish production, especially during typhoons or natural disasters.

“Implementing climate-adaptive initiatives has been the Bureau's strategy to sustain fisheries production in the region, especially during adverse weather conditions caused by climate change. As the primary government agency responsible for the production of fisheries commodities for consumption and various other purposes, the DA-BFAR RO2 has strategically embraced technology demonstration interventions and other relevant projects. The organization envisions a resilient and food-secured Philippines with empowered and prosperous fisherfolk,” the regional director added.

The key officials and representatives from partner agencies and institutions—the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), the Provincial Government of Isabela, the Local Government Units of Ramon and Cordon, SN Aboitiz, barangay officials, and members of fisherfolk groups—were among those who witnessed the activity. (ALM/MDCT/With reports from BFAR/PIA Cagayan)