BFAR Boosts Zamboanga Seaweed Industry with P11.6M Investment
DA-BFAR strengthens Zamboanga Peninsula's seaweed industry with P11.6M worth of equipment and nursery modules, benefiting 300 individual farmers and five associations as part of national fisheries development program.
BFAR officials distribute seaweed farming equipment to beneficiaries in Zamboanga City as part of P11.6M development program
The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Zamboanga Peninsula has distributed P11.6 million worth of seaweed farming equipment and nursery modules to strengthen the region's aquaculture sector, demonstrating the government's commitment to sustainable fisheries development.
Strategic Distribution to Coastal Communities
During a ceremony held on August 7, 2025, at BFAR's regional office in Zamboanga City, 300 individual beneficiaries received seaweed farming equipment valued at P6.39 million. The distribution covered six agri-fishery districts, including Tumaga, Culianan, Manicahan, Curuan, Vitali, and Ayala.
This initiative comes as a timely intervention, especially considering how recent weather events have significantly impacted agricultural productivity across the Philippines.
Empowering Local Associations
Five fishermen's associations received deep-sea seaweed nursery modules worth P5.21 million, including:
- Mampang Aqua-Marine Seaweed Farmers and Fishermen Cooperative
- Taluksangay Seaweed Farmers Association
- Manicahan Aqua-Marine Farmers Association
- Kud Binaluy Farmers and Fisherfolk Association
- Rahma Fisherfolk Association
Government Support and Vision
BFAR-Zamboanga Peninsula Director Al-Zath Kunting emphasized that this project aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.'s Enhanced Philippine Seaweed Development Program (EPSDP). The initiative mirrors the success of other government development programs, such as the modernization efforts seen in various government facilities.
The program also aims to promote community engagement and development, similar to successful initiatives like the youth-led community development programs in Davao.
"This initiative underscores BFAR's commitment to fostering inclusive, science-based development and raising the incomes of fisherfolk through sustainable seaweed farming initiatives," stated Director Kunting.
Manny Pacquiao
Independent Filipino journalist covering democracy, civil rights, and government accountability across Southeast Asia.