SURIGAO CITY — A major stride toward strengthening local food security and sustainable aquaculture was celebrated in Surigao City as members of the Barangay Baybay Lobster Culturist Association (BBLCA) marked the inaugural harvest of their ₱4.6-million marine fish cage project under the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Caraga’s Aquaculture and Mariculture Expansion and Invigoration Project (AMEIP).
The fisherfolk group—composed of 47 members, including 20 women—harvested six metric tons of market-size milkfish (bangus) valued at ₱928,481, showcasing how community-led aquaculture can directly contribute to local food supply and livelihood stability. The project utilizes modern high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fish cages, a technology that allows climate-resilient and efficient production in coastal communities.
Strengthening Local Food Production
BBLCA chairperson Merry Flor Lepio expressed gratitude to DA-BFAR and the Surigao City government, emphasizing that the success of the initial harvest reflects the community’s commitment to long-term food production.
“We are thankful for this opportunity and will do our best to sustain and expand this project to set an example for other fishing associations,” Lepio said.
Agriculture officials say the successful bangus harvest proves the viability of climate-smart aquaculture innovations in enhancing regional food security. Representing BFAR Caraga Regional Director Omnia B. Olama, Provincial Fishery Officer Bimbo C. Lagare lauded the fisherfolk’s achievement.
“Our goal is to showcase the viability of climate-smart and sustainable aquaculture in our region, and we are grateful to see this success here in Surigao,” Lagare said.
Local Leaders Push for Sustainable, Community-Driven Aquaculture
Surigao City Mayor Paul Dumlao, who joined the fisherfolk during the harvest celebration, highlighted the importance of community ownership in sustaining agriculture and fisheries projects.
City Councilor Karl Duane Casura echoed this view, stressing that the initiative aligns with the city’s long-term vision for food sustainability.
“We hope to see this initiative continue to flourish here in Surigao City,” Casura added.
A Commitment to Food Security
The project officially began on May 19, 2025, following a Memorandum of Agreement between DA-BFAR, the city government, and the BBLCA. Under the AMEIP initiative, small-scale fisherfolk receive modern fish cage technology, quality fingerlings, feeds, and continuous technical support—all aimed at boosting fish production and creating resilient coastal livelihoods.
As the Philippines continues to face challenges in food sufficiency due to climate change and supply disruptions, initiatives like the AMEIP demonstrate how local communities, equipped with appropriate technology and institutional support, can help shore up the country’s food supply.
For Surigao City’s fisherfolk, the first bangus harvest is more than a milestone—it is a promise of stronger food security, better livelihoods, and empowered coastal communities.