TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN (PIA) – Students from various universities and colleges, along with members of the Rural Improvement Clubs (RICs) across the Cagayan Valley Region, showcased their creativity and culinary prowess in the recently held Seaweed Utilization Contest organized by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 2 as part of the 2025 Farmers and Fisherfolk Month celebration this May.
The contest aimed to promote innovative uses of seaweed for both food and non-food applications, supporting DA-BFAR’s advocacy for sustainable aquaculture, food security, and community-based livelihood development.
Participants presented a wide array of entries ranging from unique culinary creations to practical non-food innovations, reflecting the versatility of seaweed as a resource. Dishes included snacks, main courses, and even alternative uses like fish feed, plant fertilizers, and handicraft materials.
Dr. Evelyn C. Ame, chief of the Research Division, emphasized the importance of harnessing seaweed as a local commodity.
“Seaweed is abundant in the coastal waters of Northern Cagayan, yet most of the raw materials leave the region due to the absence of local processing facilities. We hope to establish our own processing centers soon to boost the regional seaweed industry,” she said.
Dr. Emma L. Ballad, who represented Regional Director Angel B. Encarnacion, noted that in 2023, seaweed was the top-produced commodity in the fisheries sector, accounting for 38.2% of the country’s total volume production.
“Region 2 has strong seaweed production potential. Promoting innovative uses is key to ensuring sustainability and market value,” she added.
List of Winners:
Snacks for Children
- 1st Place: Cagayan State University – Gracilaria Ice Cream
- 2nd Place: Sinag Kababaihan, Sta. Praxedes – Empanadang Gamet with Balls
- 3rd Place: RIC of Cauayan City – Aragan Chips
Main Dish
- 1st Place: Sinag Kababaihan – Dinengdeng with Gamet
- 2nd Place: RIC of Cauayan City – Dinakdakan Seaweeds
- 3rd Place: Young Fisheries Innovators – Graci Balls (Sweet and Sour)
Non-Food Applications
- 1st Place: Licerio Antiporda Sr. National High School – Gura Bran (Fish Feed for Malaga)
- 2nd Place: RIC of Divisoria Sur, Maddela, Quirino – Ar-arosip Plant Fertilizer
- 3rd Place: Young Fisheries Innovators – Seaweave (Seaweed-based textile alternative)
The event not only celebrated seaweed as a valuable aquatic resource but also highlighted the creative potential of youth and rural communities in advancing local industries and environmental sustainability. (OTB/PIA Region 2)
