TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN – The fisheries bureau in region 02 and the Regional Fisheries Training Center have recently completed a technology caravan in the Calayan Group of Islands, bringing with them vital interventions to help in the development of the fishery sector in said town.

Conducted were evaluation of various project proposals and Financial Management Training for the proponents, site identification for mangrove restoration, FARMC reorganization, and formation of Fishery Law Enforcement Team.

Evaluated proposals were Salt making submitted by the Silpi-Dadao Fisherfolk Association, hog fattening from the Poblacion Fisherfolk Association, and sheep and goat raising from Western Magsidel Fisherfolk Association.

The project proposals were submitted for funding under the Integrated Coastal Resources Management Project. According to ICRMP Vice-chair Venchito Villarao said proposals are considered as feasible however, these will still need some refinement before submission to BFAR Central Office for approval and release of funds.

The BFAR RO2 has conducted financial management training for the proponents in order to expedite implementation of said projects.

Site assessment for the mangrove restoration meanwhile, was conducted in Brgy. Magsidel. Villarao said that planting is set by the third quarter.

Further, the town’s Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council was reorganized. Likewise, a new Fishery Law Enforcement Team composed of Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, LGU staff, Deputy Fish Wardens and members of the FARMC, was formed. Both fisherfolk bodies shall aid in the identification and resolution of fishery issues in the town, Villarao said.

Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – 02 Regional Director Jovita Ayson said that personnel of the agency will embark on similar technology caravans in hard-to-reach areas of region 02 specifically the coastal towns of Isabela and Batanes province as part of the Farmers and Fisherfolk Month Celebration this May. Ayson said that the BFAR RO2 will make use of its patrol vessel during said caravans to save on costs.