ZAMBOANGA CITY — In a bid to boost the local seaweed industry, the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Region 9 turned over nursery projects and farm implements to seaweed farmers across the city on Friday, April 4, under the Enhanced Philippine Seaweed Development Program (EPSDP).
The ceremonial turnover, led by DA-BFAR Assistant Director for Technical Services Isidro Velayo Jr., who represented Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., marked the distribution of five Medium Density Poly-Ethylene (MDPE) deep-sea seaweed nursery modules. Each module, using the one-hectare raft method, is valued at P1.02 million.
In addition, 300 sets of seaweed farm implements worth P21,310 per set — totaling P6.393 million — were turned over to individual seaweed farmers from different associations across the city.
The event began with a stakeholders’ meeting and consultation held at the DA-BFAR Regional Office in R.T. Lim Boulevard, where key partners discussed challenges and strategies to improve the seaweed industry.
The turnover was conducted by batch, starting with farmers from the Tumaga District. Other districts, including Ayala, Culianan, Manicahan, Curuan, and Vitali, are set to receive their equipment in the following days.
Prior to the turnover ceremony, Assistant Director Velayo led a site visit and a ceremonial seaweed harvest in Barangay Dita, further engaging with farmers and stakeholders on efforts to sustain and strengthen the industry.
In a recorded message, DA Secretary Laurel emphasized the significance of the seaweed sector in the country’s fisheries industry.
“Ang ating layunin para ipagpatuloy ng mabuti at mapanatiling sustainable ang industriya ng seaweeds ay napakahalagang adhika. Ako ay tiwala na sa inyong patuloy na suporta at pagkakaisa ay makakamit ang lubos na pag-unlad ng industriya ng seaweed,” he said.
Also present during the turnover were DA-BFAR-9 Regional Director Al-Zath Kunting, DA-RFO-IX Regional Technical Director for Operations Maria Melba Wee, Assistant City Agriculturist Engr. Erwin Kulayan (representing Mayor John Dalipe), Zamboanga City Agricultural and Fishery Council President Lilia Nuño, and City Fishery Officer Dr. Bonifacio Duterte Jr.
The EPSDP aims to support seaweed farmers by providing access to modern technologies, capital support, and improved facilities to enhance seaweed production and ensure long-term sustainability.
