DA-BFAR Sails to Tawi-Tawi to Deliver Livelihood Support To Fisherfolk

Despite reported strong and nearly two-storey ocean waves, government’s multi-mission vessel, M/V DA-BFAR (DYCA) sailed across the vast Sulu Sea to deliver livelihood support to the fisherfolk of Tawi-Tawi.

Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol was in the southernmost province of the country to hold a dialogue with over 100 farmers and fisherfolk in the area. “Tapatan” is a regular forum hosted by Secretary Piñol, himself, to provide agriculture and fisheries stakeholders in different provinces the opportunity to raise their concerns and submit their requests to the national government.

Together with Undersecretary for Fisheries and BFAR National Director Eduardo Gongona and Undersecretary for Special Concerns Bai Ranibai Dilangalen, Secretary Piñol awarded 40 fiberglass motor boats to the fisherfolk of Bongao and Taganak (Turtle Island) in Tawi-Tawi. Each boat will be co-owned by two municipal fishers. Piñol also distributed 40 sets of gillnets and 20 units of fiberglass rain harvesters that will serve as an alternative source of fresh water for smaller fishing island communities.

The livelihood materials, which have a total estimated amount of PhP 3.28 million, were loaded on DYCA and transported from Zamboanga City to Bongao.

Once devoted solely to oceanographic activities and research purposes, DYCA was transformed into a multi-mission vessel to boost government’s capacity to respond to calamities and deliver livelihood support and services, particularly to far-flung island communities.

Tawi-Tawi Governor Rashidin Matba thanked Secretary Piñol and his team for taking the time to listen and respond to the concerns of fisherfolk and farmers. He also appealed to Piñol to support the province in developing its seaweeds subsector and other high-value species.

Aside from spending time with farmers and fisherfolk, Secretary Piñol and his team also visited the site for the proposed Community Fish Landing Center (CFLC) project by BFAR. He also went to the wet market to check existing fishery commodities available.

Among the local officials present in the event were Tawi-Tawi Governor Rashidin Matba, Bongao Mayor Jimuel Que, Taganak (Turtle Island) Mayor Benie Oliveros, Sibutu Mayor Alshefa Pajiji and BFAR-ARMM Regional Director Janice Musali. (DA-BFAR)