Camiguin, Philippines—The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)—National Mariculture Center (NMC) hosted a successful benchmarking activity on August 14,2024 in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Mahinog, Camiguin. The event was attended by key officials, including Hon. Mayor Rey Lawrence K. Tan, Hon. Vice Mayor Nerio Y. Galochino, and several Sangguniang Bayan (SB) members and municipal staff.
The activity began with a warm welcome from Mr. Edwin S. Rosos, the Officer-in-Charge of the National Mariculture Center. Standing in for the Center Chief, Dr. Jericardo S. Mondragon, Mr. Rosos delivered an inspiring speech during the opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of the collaboration between BFAR and the LGU of Mahinog. He highlighted the importance of shared knowledge and experiences in advancing sustainable mariculture practices in the region.
Following Mr. Rosos’ remarks, Mayor Rey Lawrence K. Tan delivered a message of support. He expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership and reiterated his commitment to enhancing the fisheries and aquatic resources sectors in Mahinog. Mayor Tan acknowledged the vital role that the BFAR-NMC plays in fostering innovation and providing technical support to local government units, which is essential for boosting the mariculture industry in Camiguin.
Before the site visits, Ms. Juliebee C. Rosos, the head of the Training and Program Development Section, provided an overview of the National Mariculture Center’s operations. She discussed the Center’s core functions, the significance of mariculture in regional development, and the various programs and training initiatives spearheaded by the NMC to support local communities and enhance fish production.
Ms. Rosos, together with NMC Technical Staff, led the LGU delegation on a tour of the National Mariculture Center’s key operational areas. The visitors were given a firsthand look at the different facilities, including the acclimatization facility, post-harvest facility, and red tilapia hatchery. The tour provided valuable insights into the Center’s advanced mariculture technologies and sustainable practices, which the LGU of Mahinog aims to adopt and implement in their municipality.
The benchmarking activity concluded with a fruitful exchange of ideas and best practices, fostering stronger ties between the BFAR-NMC and the LGU of Mahinog. Both parties expressed optimism for future collaborations that would further promote the growth of the mariculture industry in Region 10, ensuring food security and livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The event was a testament to the strong partnership between national agencies and local governments in advancing sustainable and innovative practices in the fisheries sector.