SULU — In celebration of Farmers and Fisherfolks Month this May, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) Sulu Fisheries Division is set to distribute various fishery inputs to selected beneficiaries across the province. This is part of their support to the national theme, “Makabagong Magsasaka at Mangingisda, Susi sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas.”
According to MAFAR Sulu Fisheries Division Chief Fardia Abduhasad, the distribution includes 40 sets of Seaweeds Farm Inputs (SFI) from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) central office, pending confirmation of the arrival of BFAR officials to formally commence the activity. Additional inputs from MAFAR-BARMM will also be distributed, including 20 sets each of non-motorized boats, fish pots, marine gill nets, and rolls of BB nets under MAFAR’s regular program.
On top of these, MAFAR Sulu will also provide 11 motorized boats complete with accessories, three solar-powered freezers, and 100 rolls of fish nets to further assist local fisherfolk in enhancing their livelihoods.
Aside from distributing fishery equipment, MAFAR Sulu will also spearhead a mangrove planting activity in the coastal barangay of Pag-asinan, Hadji Panglima Tahil. Approximately 300 mangrove propagules will be out-planted as part of the agency’s environmental conservation efforts.
“These mangroves will not only serve as breeding grounds for marine life but also act as natural barriers that protect coastal communities from strong waves and harsh weather,” Abduhasad emphasized. She also highlighted the importance of the mangrove nursery established by MAFAR Sulu, which now serves as a sustainable source of planting materials for current and future initiatives.
Through these activities, MAFAR Sulu aims to empower fisherfolk with improved resources while contributing to environmental protection and the sustainability of marine resources in the province.