KALAP Vol. 15 No. 02

Vol. 15 No. 02 July - December 2014

Bamboo planting eyed as alternative livelihood for Ludong fishers

TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN – The fisheries bureau in Region 2 recently held a meeting with local government units where it discussed plan to implement a large scale bamboo planting project intended as alternative livelihood for fishers affected with the implementation of the Ludong closed season.

The project will mainly benefit those fishers that were directly involved in catching Ludong. The Bureau initially estimates a direct monetary benefit of P4,500.00 per beneficiary, enough to cover or pay for 300 pieces propagules planted. Payment per propagule is P15.00 broken down as P10.00 for the propagule, P3.00 labor cost for planting and P2.00 for maintenance.

The monetary benefit per fisher, according to Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 02 Regional Director Dr. Jovita Ayson, can still increase depending on the number of Ludong fishers. The Bureau has presented a masterlist of Ludong fishers to be validated with the LGUs in the coming weeks.

“This project will focus on those who are really in need. The project shall contribute towards the successful implementation of BAC 247,” RD Ayson said.

Bureau Administrative Circular 247 imposes a closed fishing season on Ludong from October 1 to November 15 of each year. The fishery regulation was issued by BFAR late last year with the aim to protect spawning Ludong (Cestraeus sp.) and bring back the abundance of the fish in the wild.

According to Dr. Evelyn Ame, the decision to venture into bamboo planting is due to the plant’s fast growth, ease of culture and low production cost. The plant is also a source of food and has high usage in handicrafts and building construction.

For. Pablo Agustin of CENRO tours the members of the BFAR Region 02 Technical Working Group at the Clonal Nursery for bamboo being part of the training on bamboo propagule propagation to implement the Alternative Livelihood Program for fisherfolk who are affected by the ban on catching Ludong.

“Bamboo planting can also mitigate the ill-effects of climate change such as floods and soil erosion”, Ame, head of the Bureau’s Oplan Sagip Ludong project, added.

Last Nov. 18, the Clonal Nursery in the CENRO here, led by Dr. Noel Soriano and For. Pablo Agustin, held a training on bamboo propagule propagation, nursery establishment and actual planting and maintenance. Soriano confirmed the high market potential of bamboo given the limited supply in Region 02.

DENR Regional Technical Director for Research, Lilia de Leon Abel, also underscored the other economic benefits from bamboo. “It can be harvested after 7 years, and harvest can be continuous, unlike a lumber tree, which can only be harvested at once.”

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What’s inside: Stock enhancement seen to revive.................. 2 BFAR RO2 approves Php 12.9 M ..................... 3 BFAR RO2 helps Fisheries Scholars ................ 3 EDITORIAL: Entrepreneurship ......................... 4 PMMSN RO2 responds to MarMam ................. 5 Region 2’s marine species under study ......... 6 BFAR RO2 kicks off 51st FishCon .................... 6 Sta. Praxedes ventures to upland .................. 7 BFAR R02 airs need to speed up FishR .......... 7 BFAR RO2 all set for implementation .............. 8 Education vs. Apprehension ............................ 8 Reorganization, streghtening of FARMCs ...... 9 BFAR RO2 honors Philippine Flag ................... 9 BFAR urges youths to take part .................... 10 Fishing materials augment fishefolk’s ......... 10 DENR extends assistance in BFAR ................ 11 FSA Program produces 200 fisherfolk ......... 11 UK-based NGO inks accord on eel ................ 12 Send-off Special: Ms. Proserfina Reyno ....... 14 BAC 247 Launching Snapshots ..................... 16 51st Linggo ng Pangisdaan ........................... 18 Techno Corner: PAYAO .................................... 20

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The Career Executive Service Board confers a Plaque of Distinguished Service to BFAR Regional Director Jovita P. Ayson in recognition of her 44 years of service and for having exemplified the ideals of a Career Executive Service Officer as a leader, expert and change agent.

Stock enhancement seen to revive waning eel population The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Region 02 (BFAR R02) continues with its Elvers Stock Enhancement program as a preemptive measure to ensure continued abundance of the fish species.

During the third semester of the year, BFAR R02 dispersed 20 kilograms of elvers (Anguilla species) which is equivalent to 156, 000 pieces juvenile eels to communal bodies of water that are tributaries and channels of the Cagayan River.

Research Chief Dr. Evelyn C. Ame said that the program will aim to repopulate the dwindling count of eel in the wild.

In fact, a report by the Zoological Society of London mentions that some eel species are already rated as endangered and near threatened as per International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.

and preservation of this high-priced fishery resource.

ecological balance in the ecosystem.

Just last year, the export value of elvers, or dalara in the local dialect reached up to fifty thousand pesos per kilogram that drove marginal fisherfolk into open access gathering and collection frenzy.

Dr. Ame shared about the ecosystem roles of eels as both a food source and a predator of organisms in their ecosystem and as a conduit in the distribution of nutrients between marine and freshwater ecosystems because they migrate between those habitats.

BFAR, while it understands that the unrestrained collection of elvers is being set off by the escalating price in the international market, had reinstated Fisheries Administrative Order 242 on the ban on exportation of elvers.

She went further into saying that eels are a popular food source with high nutritional value for humans and help keep ecosystem from overpopulation by feeding on the eggs of predatory fishes.

Meanwhile, the program seeks to increase awareness of the fisherfolk on the importance of eel through its Information, Education and Communication (IEC) component.

The research chief said that eels can be a bio-indicator for pollution.

The IEC campaign educates the community about the life cycle and the significance of eel in maintaining

Regulatory measures on the conservation, management, and protection of eel were as well discussed to update the community on existing laws and policies. oDonald Aguinaldo.

The stocks were sourced from the marine waters in Aparri, Cagayan where they naturally thrive until their migration to freshwater areas.

Recipients of said program are the municipalities of Diadi, Ambaguio, Quezon, Bagabag and Santa Fe in Nueva Vizcaya; Pe単ablanca and Baggao in Cagayan; Delfin Albano, Naguillian, Angadanan and Jones in Isabela; and, Diffun, Cabarroguis, Aglipay, Nagtipunan and Maddela in Quirino.

BFAR Regional Director Jovita P. Ayson said that the stock enhancement program that started in 2009 is geared toward the conservation, protection

BFAR RO2 and Local Government Unit staff are joined by the community during the dispersal of elvers to Communal Bodies of Water that are tributaries and channels of the Cagayan River as a preemptive measures to an impending decline in population of eel species.

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BFAR R02 approves Php12.9-million GPBP projects The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 02 (BFAR R02) had approved the proposals on various agro-fishery infrastructure and noninfrastructure projects under the Grassroots Participatory Budgeting Process (GPBP) which amount to PhP12, 981, 000.00.

Overall, there were 14 GPBPidentified projects in Region 02 for 2014 that were given to eligible local government units (LGUs) who are among the priority municipalities and cities that submitted their proposed Local Poverty Reduction Action Plans (LPRAP) to the Department of Agriculture in 2013 and 2014.

The LPRAP is the LGU plan which contains programs and projects collectively drawn through a participatory process by the LGU with civil society organizations and other stakeholders, and which will directly address the needs of the poor constituencies and the marginalized sectors in the municipality or city.

The Bureau conducted a project site field validation, geo-tagging and feasibility validation of the project and verified the accuracy of submitted project proposals and supporting documents before approval of the

projects.

BFAR R02 Planning Chief Dr. Angel B. Encarnacion has referred to the GPBP, formerly the Bottom-Up Budgeting (BuB), in the budget proposal of the agency to meet the development needs of poor cities or municipalities as identified in their respective LPRAPs. Dr. Encarnacion said further that the strategy, which is to make the planning and budgeting processes of both local and national governments more participatory and empowering through the genuine participation from the grassroots, is in pursuit of the Millennium Development Goal of reducing poverty from 26.5% in 2009 to 16.6% by 2015 and attaining the Philippine Development Plan’s goal of inclusive growth and poverty reduction.

Among the approved GPBP projects are Fish Hatchery in Abulug, Package of Agriculture and Fishery Technologies, Establishment of Agricultural and Fishery Integrated Center and Transport System in Aparri, Construction/Excavation of fishponds in Baggao, and Tilapia Culture in Sta. Ana, Cagayan.

The GPBP projects for Isabela include the Establishment of Fishcages

in Cauayan City, Rehabilitation of Municipal Hatchery and Technology Demonstration of Fish Culture in Echague, Backyard Tilapia Raising and Rehabilitation of the Culasi Port in Palanan, and Establishment of Municipal Hatchery in Quirino.

Fishery Development Project on Tilapia and Conservation and Protection of Fish Sanctuary are among the GPBP projects to be established in Dupax Del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya and Maddela, Quirino, respectively.

All the aforesaid GPBP projects will be implemented through BFAR R02 by a Memorandum of Agreement with the local government units.

The project fund for this year will come from the General Appropriation Act for C.Y. 2014 allotted to the Department of Agriculture and National Irrigation Administration and a counterpart funding of 10% of the project cost from LGUs except for 4th to 6th class municipalities which is 5% or lower.

For the ensuing years, the fund to implement eligible projects will be derived from the regular budget of the Bureau. oDonald Aguinaldo.

BFAR R02 helps Fisheries scholars become young entrepreneurs Twentry three graduating BS Fisheries scholars of the Cagayan State University – Aparri (CSU-Aparri) are fortunate enough, as while studying, the students are at the same time involved in an entrepreneurial pursuit through a project grant from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources R02.

In May this year, BFAR R02 awarded the group, based in the CSU-Aparri extension in Buguey, Cagayan, with five units GI Pipe marine cages (5m x 5m x 2.5m) with complete inputs. Four of the marine cages were located along the Buguey Lagoon and the remaining one at CSU-Aparri that serves as an instructional material for students of the University’s College of Fisheries and Marine Science.

Young and student entrepreneurs of the Cagayan State University - College of Fisheries in Aparri, Cagayan reap the fruits of their labor after a successful harvest of the Marine Cages for Livelihood, a project grant fron region 02, which produce 928 kilograms of bangus.

The students’ business acumen was put to forth after their successful harvest of 928 kilograms of milkfish from

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Editorial K ALAP

Entrepreneurship Entrepreneurship is defined as the capacity and willingness to develop, organize and manage a business venture along with any of its risks in order to make a profit. Entrepreneurship is currently the focus of the advocacy group, Go Negosyo, which they say is one way to eliminate poverty in the countryside. There are also bills pending before the Upper and Lower House seeking to teach or integrate entrepreneurship in schools and to develop entrepreneurship among government workers.

While decidedly a necessary virtue to bring about prosperity specially on the part of the less fortunate sectors of society, particularly the fisherfolk, it is sad to note that “entrepreneurship’’ is hardly practiced or exhibited by our constituents.

Experience in implementing livelihood projects, both for individual and group projects, would show us that failures or bottlenecks, most often arise not as a result of technical issues but more so on problems from among the beneficiaries themselves. The observations are as follows: • Dole-out and kanyakanya mentality are still very much prevalent. This leads to lack of sense of responsibility and accountability. This

QQ Livelihood projects / Fingerling Dispersal QQ Techno-demo projects QQ PNAP / ICRMP QQ Cages for livelihood projects QQ Post-Harvest / Fish Processing Development QQ Provision of fishing boats & Environment friendly fishing gears

also leads to: • Pilferage mismanagement.

• Beneficiaries hardly practice financial management. They fail to fully account expenditures and harvests or sales revenues at the end. Too many members handle cash, some do not remit collections, and also officials dip their fingers into the coffers of the project.

EDITORIAL BOARD Kalap is a semestral newsletter of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office No. 02. The publication is a compilation of news and feature articles released by the Bureau during the given period.

Maximino Prudencio Jr.

For information and feedback, please send to: Department of Agriculture Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources - Region 02 Regional Government Center Carig, Tuguegarao City Telefax: (078) 304 5331 / (078) 396 9774

Maximino Prudencio Jr. Aileen Silva Donald Aguinaldo Imelda Silvania

E-mail us @ bfar_ro2@yahoo.com bfar2fis13@gmail.com

Leo Reyes

Like us on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bureau-of-Fisheriesand-Aquatic-Resources-Region-02/246323572215344 Please visit our website and download a copy of this issue @ http://region2.bfar.da.gov.ph/

and

Editor-In-Chief Aileen Silva

Assistant Editor

Contributors Cartoonist

Jaylord Cabulay

Layout

Technical Consultants

BFAR RO2 Top Management

• Without proper records, financial analysis can not be made, purposely to determine good points or moves and measures to counteract impediments or sub-par results.

• Beneficiaries have penchant for give-aways and little celebrations (kainan, inuman) upon harvest, which would erode their available capital for next crop cycle.

• Poor marketing. Beneficiaries do not care to market their produce themselves for higher profit. They prefer to sell to middlemen which would always result to lower income (if at all) given the shrewd nature of these wholesale buyers.

Fishery projects, if implemented properly, are highly profitable. Not many agri-based businesses can match profitability figures for fishery projects particularly aquaculture. Fish is also highly in demand in Region 02, given the supply gap.

In this light, we believe that entrepreneurship (along with financial management and values formation) must be integrated, or intensifed and given equal importance to technical trainings and assistances, in order to achieve higher success rates on livelihood projects.

We also urge our constituents to do away with the negative observations mentioned above. BFAR RO2 is always here to assist, success lies in no one but in themselves.

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PMMSN R02 responds to marine mammal, whale shark stranding; honored for pioneering PMMSN matters At long last the protection of marine mammals and other endangered species in Region 02 has been brought to force with the Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network (PMMSN) leading in the successful rescue of a handful of such species this year.

Overall, there were 13 marine mammal and whale shark stranding events this year of which six of the species were rehabilitated and released back to their habitat.

Dr. Jovita P. Ayson, BFAR R02 Regional Director, was pleased about this extraordinary effort and claimed that it was the result of the constant information, education, and communication (IEC) campaign and training in marine mammal stranding response undertaken by the PMMSN, BFAR R02 and local government units in various coastal towns of Cagayan and Isabela.

Four of those who survived were whale sharks (Rhincodon typus), or butanding, a 5.6-meter long humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) beached along the Dicatian Bay in Divilacan, Isabela and a 2.5-meter bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) found on shore in Gonzaga, Cagayan.

The said whale sharks, known to be the largest fish species in the world, were stranded during the period February to April 2014 in Buguey, Sanchez Mira, and Claveria, Cagayan.

Each butanding measured between 7 to 10 meters and individually weighed up to a thousand kilograms.

BFAR RO2 resident veterinary doctor Jefferson K. Soriano said that the marine mammals and whale sharks managed to survive through the help and concern of the people who offered first-aid and brought the incidence to the attention of the right authority.

In addition, the PMMSN reports show that the other seven species died either on the spot with indications of shark bites, wounds, scratches and ill health or after the treatment.

The same reports indicate that some species were already in decomposition state when discovered by the locales, among which were baleen whale (Mysticeti) found along the shores of Bulala Norte, Aparri and two unidentified species in Divilacan,

Isabela.

In September and October, a Risso’s dolphin (Grampus griseus), dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima), and except for the Cuvier’s beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris) that was found lifeless, died after a serious rehabilitation effort.

The first reported stranding this year was a 22-foot butanding, approximately between 2-3 tons in San Vicente, Sta. Ana, Cagayan but died shortly after the species’ tough struggle to get into the deep portion of the sea.

Dr. Jefferson K. Soriano explained that all the indications observed during the stranding events are the usual causes why marine mammals and whale sharks swim into the shallow water to take refuge and end up stranding themselves in the beaches.

Among the other possibilities that might have caused these species to get stranded are due to human disturbance, the species seeking for food, navigational error, or when they get separated from the pod especially the young.

The PMMSN performed necropsy and tissue sampling on the carcasses to probe on the cause of death before these were buried.

On the other hand, Regional Director Ayson reminds everyone that human activities directly contribute to such stranding incidences such as when people deliberately or inadvertently infect the environment where the species live and disrupt their natural course.

For this reason, the fisheries bureau head is encouraging all to remain cautious with their actions and steadfast to protecting marine mammals and whale sharks and responding in case of stranding events.

The PMMSN R02 is a regional chapter whose members come from government institutions, stakeholders of coastal communities, the medical and academic institutions, industry and nongovernment agencies that responds to marine mammal and whale shark stranding as well as their protection and conservation to show that these species are valuable sentinels of the ocean and human health.

“Trailblazer setter” The PMMSN conferred a Special Plaque of Recognition to BFAR R02 Regional Director Dr. Jovita P. Ayson for her “outstanding support to the PMMSN and for being the trail blazer regarding PMMSN matters for the entire BFAR organization since its inception in October 2005.”

Regional Director Ayson was honored for her exceptional leadership that has always included the PMMSN’s mission.

The body noted that RD Ayson’s leadership has always served as a model for every region to emulate, which made the difference for the entire PMMSN. The recognition was made during the 2nd PMMSN National Symposium at Ocean Adventure in Subic, Zambales on October 28, 2014. oDonald Aguinaldo.

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Region 2’s commercial marine species under study TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN – The regional office of the bureau of fisheries here is currently undertaking a comprehensive research to determine status of commercially-important marine fish species.

According to the assistant study leader Melanie Calicdan, the research, known as the National Stock Assessment Program specifically aims to determine “population parameters” such as exploitation value, mortality, recruitment pattern, growth and length at first capture. Data being gathered also serves as input in determining ‘catch per unit effort’ and ‘maximum

sustainable yield’ of marine fisheries resources.

Although BFAR RO2 has been conducting NSAP since1998, Calicdan says that the coverage area of the research was recently expanded in order to provide more accurate data.

All coastal municipalities in Region 02 now have an NSAP enumerator, enabling 80% coverage of Region 2’s fishing grounds, Calicdan said.

Data being gathered by NSAP enumerators include the total catch per fishing trip further segregated into its species composition, number of

hours spent in fishing, and fishing gear used. The NSAP enumerators are also tapped to conduct fishing boat and gear inventory.

NSAP will run for three years, after which only potential sites will be retained.

“The information to be derived from the NSAP shall enable us to craft appropriate measures for the management of our fishing grounds and in providing interventions for our fishermen,” Dr. Angel Encarnacion, NSAP head, said. oMaximino Prudencio.

BFAR RO2 kicks-off 51st Fish Con Week celebration TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN – The fisheries bureau in Region 2 has formally opened on October 13, 2014 the week-long celebration of the 51st Fish Conservation Week with a fun walk at the Regional Government Complex here.

harvest field days for aquaculture technologies being promoted by the Bureau in various parts of the region, mangrove planting in Claveria and Sta. Teresita towns this province, and graduation ceremony for the Fisheries School on Air in Sta. Teresita.

The early morning drum-beat was followed by the dismantling of confiscated electro-fishing gadgets and other illegal fishing implements highlighting the Bureau’s commitment to eradicate all forms of illegal fishing in Region 02.

The Bureau also conduct seaweed and fish processing demonstration, Fisherfolk Registration (FishR) consultation meeting, fisheries research and development review, reorganization of the federation of fisherfolk organizations (SAMARAL) in Region 02, all in BFAR RO2.

Other activities lined-up include

The observance of the Fish Conservation Week is mandated under Presidential Proclamation No. 176. It aims to stir public awareness on the importance of protecting and conserving fisheries and aquatic resources. In his FishCon message, BFAR Director Atty. Asis G. Perez underscored the importance of fisherfolk registration saying that the data will be used in each region to craft appropriate interventions to improve the plight of marginalized fisherfolk. This year’s theme “Sector ng mga Mangingisdang Rehistrado at Kinilala, Kabalikat sa Pagsulong ng Pangisdaang Masagana,” likewise centers on the importance of fisherfolk registration.

Although a week-long activity, the BFAR RO2 here usually extend celebration to the whole month of October to better reach-out its fisherfolk clientele.

Earlier, the Bureau has started the ‘October FISHtival,’ an exhibit featuring various processed fishery products, validation of FishR, fishery law enforcement thru market denial and seaborne patrol mission, fingerling dispersal and advocacy campaign highlighting the Bureau’s programs and projects.

Admin. and Finance Chief Dr. Ronaldo R. Libunao (center) leads the rest of BFAR Region Employees during a Fun Walk around the Regional government Center in Carig commencing the week-long celebration of the Fish Conservation Week on October 12-19, 2014.

The bureau also conduct financial management and skills (salt production) training for recipients of livelihood projects under Component C (Enterprise Development and Income Diversification) of the Integrated Coastal Resource Management Project. oMaximino Prudencio.

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Sta. Praxedes ventures to upland aquaculture Sta. Praxedes, the gateway to Ilocos Norte and a town whose terrain is described by rolling mountains, can now increase its fish supply through the very first upland aquaculture in the area which is outside the traditional grounds in Nueva Vizcaya.

In June this year, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the region (BFAR R02) granted a project proposal establishing a technology demonstration project for Tilapia Culture in Fishpond located at a mountain hill in Barangay Portabaga in said town.

The project came despite the area being a non-traditional site for upland aquaculture, but with the eagerness of the local government of Sta. Praxedes to give it a go, BFAR R02 acceded with the proposed project.

Under a full support scheme, BFAR R02 provided inputs for the project such as fingerlings and feeds and technical assistance, while the cooperator assumed the preparation of pond and the maintenance of the project.

Venchito B. Villarao, provincial fishery action officer (PFAO) for Cagayan, explained that the project was handed over to the project’s cooperator by the name of Nestor Carpio through the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist of LGU-Sta. Praxedes. This is to explore nonconventional areas for upland aquaculture which can be feasible for development.

PFAO Villarao added that with more feasible sites to be identified where projects can be soon established,

Men and women alike join during the harvest of tilapia to conclude the Upland Aquaculture Project, the first of its kind in Sta. Praxedes, Cagayan. places where non-traditional upland aquaculture sites are located may increase their supply of fish.

Ofelia Ragsac, Municipal Agriculturist, said that the site was once a barren piece of land but because of the natural source of water nearby that is convenient for the project, the Agriculture Office agreed to turn the area into a worthwhile space for livelihood.

The success of this said aquaculture venture in the highland was supported in a Harvest Field Day in October 9 wherein 273 kilograms of tilapia was produced after four months of semiintensive culture in a pond with an area of 500 square meters.

The project cooperator expressed his pleasure for a productive implementation of the project especially for the knowledge and skills learned during the pilot undertaking.

Meanwhile, Mayor Esterlina Aguinaldo-Ramos thanked BFAR R02

for allowing the town to take up the challenge and because she knew the town can take advantage of the project for its livelihood and tourism.

Mayor Ramos explained the point of the advantages as when fishermen cannot go fishing because of bad sea conditions, the town would not run out of fish supply because aquaculture can serve as an alternative source.

With the project site just a few meters away from the town’s best known tourist attraction called the Portabaga Falls, the local chief executive said that the project will be an added attraction.

The mayor revealed that the local government plans to establish an eating place right at the project site where tourists, who usually come to Sta. Praxedes for mountain trekking, can fish and eventually have their meal right there and then after the trek. oDonald Aguinaldo

BFAR RO2 airs need to speed-up fisherfolk registration TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN – The fisheries bureau in Region 02 is calling on its LGU partners to expedite the registration of fisherfolks as required under the National Fisherfolk Registration Program (FishR).

The urgent request is in view of the November 15 deadline given to LGUs for them to qualify for the two million pesos reward allocated for municipalities that can complete the registration on or before the deadline.

According to Brainard Liwanag, FishR coordinator in Cagayan Valley, six reward slots are allocated for Region 02. Liwanag however, clarified that reward will only be given to those that can meet the national median. The median will be determined by the BFAR

CO, after the FishR general deadline on December.

Registered fisherfolk will be validated further by the FishR coordinating team in Region 02. The reward will be in the form of livelihood for fisherfolk and will be given ‘in kind’, Liwanag explained.

Along this line, the FishR coordinating team in Region 02 has also completed the installation of Data Entry Terminal in all LGUs to address issues on poor or no internet connection. The new system will allow LGUs to record registrants offline, to be uploaded later by BFAR. The FishR, launched by BFAR Dir.

Atty. Asis G. Perez in Region 02 October last year, is intended to enhance, fasttract and complete the municipal fisherfolk registration as required under RA 8550 or the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998.

Information to be gleaned from the FishR, BFAR RO2 Regional Director Dr. Jovita Ayson said, shall be used as reference and basis in the identification and granting of various interventions not only by BFAR but also other government agencies.

While general deadline is set on December this year, registration, Ayson said, shall be a continuous process given the entry of new fisherfolk. oMaximino Prudencio.

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BFAR RO2 all set for implementation of BAC 247 TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN – The fisheries bureau in Region 02 has all its personnel and equipment ready for the implementation of Bureau Administrative Circular 247, a fishery regulation declaring a closed-season on the catching of Ludong effective October 1 to November 15 of each year.

According to Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 02 Regulatory and Quarantine Head Arsenio Bañares, the agency has formed seven fishery law enforcement teams to be deployed in known Ludong fishing areas regionwide in time with the closed-season. The teams will be joined by personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, BFAR Central Office and concerned provincial and municipal local government units.

“The teams are tasked to conduct pro-active patrols, surveillance and market denial operations, to ensure that fishers and buyers alike, adhere to the regulation,”Bañares said.

Area covered include the entire stretch of the Cagayan River, including its tributaries, headwaters and

watersheds.

Meantime, information campaign is also being held by the fisheries bureau in key areas regionwide as measure to disseminate the salient provisions of BAC 247, the rationale behind it, and other Ludong – related information.

offense involves catching of spawning Ludong during the closed season.

Export of spawning Ludong also carries a penalty of 8 years imprisonment, confiscation of the same and fine equivalent to double the value of the same.

BAC 247 was crafted primarily to arrest the rapid decline on the abundance of Ludong (Cestraeus sp.) a highly priced fish that is also considered as cultural symbol of Cagayanos.

BFAR Director Asis G. Perez will spearhead a launching activity for BAC 247 on October 1 in Lallo, Cagayan . All mayors and/or municipal agriculturists or technicians, FARMC leaders, Congressmen, regional line agencies heads, chief of police and other concerned officials, Governors and provincial officials, Sanggunian Panlalawigan and Sanggunian Bayan members (Committee on Agriculture), and BFAR Regional Directors from Region 1 and CAR, were invited to join in the activity.

The administrative circular states that ‘it shall be unlawful for any person, association or corporation to catch or cause to be caught, using any type of gear or fishing method, purchase, sell or expose for sale, transport, export or have in possession, fish known as Ludong, its by-products or derivatives, during the closed season as defined’.

The regulation provides for a penalty of imprisonment of 6 months to 1 year and/or fine of six thousand pesos and forfeiture of catch and fishing gadgets. However, a stiffer penalty of 6 months and 1 day to 8 years imprisonment and / or fine of eighty thousand pesos, shall be imposed, if

“We know that Ludong migrates downstream to spawn, anytime from now, upon occurrence of flood waters.

We appeal to our fishers and the buyers or financers to comply with the new regulation, as success of BAC 247 lies not only on BFAR, but more so on the full cooperation of everyone,” BFAR RO2 Regional Director Dr. Jovita Ayson, said. oMaximino Prudencio.

Education vs. Apprehension to implement BAC 247 “no fishing period” of Ludong TUGUEGARAO CITY – National Director Atty. Asis G. Perez of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources calls for support from local media practitioners

here to assist the fisheries bureau in its drive to save the now threatened Ludong fish in Northern Luzon through the BFAR Administrative Circular (BAC)

247 s. 2013 declaring a “no fishing” period from October 1 – November 15 of the year in a press conference held in time for the Launching of the fishery law.

Perez says that in order to implement the revitalized law banning the catching of Ludong fish during its spawning season, fishery law enforcers of the bureau will apply the “education vs. apprehension” strategy. Make people aware on the great need to conserve and protect Ludong rather than apprehend them when they caught one, Perez quipped.

BFAR Director Asis G. Perez, together with Regional Director Jovita P. Ayson and Assistant Regional Director Milagos C. Morales answers questions pertaining to the implementation of BAC 247 on the closed season of Ludong during a media conference.

The director also cited the case of the closed season for sardines imposed in Zamboanga’s fishing grounds where years after, the region experienced influx of sardine catch. He is optimistic that same scenario will also happen in Cagayan River once fishers will give gravid Ludong (spawners) chance to spawn during the forty-five day no fishing period set by the law. oAileen A. Silva

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K ALAP

Reorganization, strengthening of FARMCs seek sustainable fisheries, aquatic resources and San Mateo, Isabela.

2014 Fisherfolk Regional Director Alexander M. Agra explains before the members of the FARMC the significant role of the group in conservation efforts along fisheries and aquatic resources.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 02 completed the reorganization and strengthening of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (FARMCs) in various coastal and inland towns in Region 02 with its aim to ensure the continued management and control over fisheries and aquatic resources through the active participation of stakeholders.

This year, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 02

(BFAR R02), in partnership with the local government units, helped eleven FARMCs effect change in organizational leadership and revisit fundamental goals concerning the sustainable use of fishery and aquatic resources.

Among those who commenced reorganization and strengthening are the FARMC of Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya; Ballesteros, Claveria, Gonzaga, Sta. Ana, and Sta. Praxedes, Cagayan; Cordon, Dinapigue, Ramon, Santiago,

In order to bolster the capability of FARMCs in the pursuit of its goals, BFAR R02 had to first, identify the composition of the council comprised of municipal/ city agriculturist, SB member for Agriculture/Fisheries, representative of the city/municipal Development Council, city/municipal Planning and Development Officer, representatives from a non-government organization, the private sector, and at least 11 members from the fisherfolk sector.

From among the group, members elect the officers who will assume office for three years.

FARMC members were familiarized with the bases, guidelines in the creation of FARMC, and its functions.

FARMC Regional Coordinator Dr. Ronaldo R. Libunao, citing Executive Order No. 240 of 1995, said that it is the function of every FARMC to prepare and recommend the fisheries and aquatic management policies and plans for integration in the Local Development Plan based on sound assessment and bio-economic characteristics of the resources.

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BFAR RO2 honors Philippine Flag TUGUEGARAO CITY – Employees of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources regional office here showed their respect to the Philippine Flag through the ceremonial act of reverence in time of the 114th observance with the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) founding anniversary.

ways to show that we are truly servants of the Filipino people, which the flag

represents” Ayson quipped. oAileen

A.

Silva

The act of patriotism was witnessed

by Bureau Director Atty. Asis G. Perez, Jovy Miguel CSC Director for Batanes and Cagayan field office, BFAR RO2 Regional Directors Jovita P. Ayson, BFAR CAR Regional Director Lilibeth L. Signey and Purita S. Licas of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

Twenty five worn-out flags were burned and buried within the regional office grounds. Dir. Miguel in her talk lauded BFAR 2 for being the only agency doing such nationalistic deed in the entire Cagayan Valley region.

This tradition was started by the bureau in 2010. “The act of reverence to the Philippine flag is just one of our

Acting Director II of the CSC Region 02 Cagayan and Batanes Field Office Jovy T. Miguel (fourth from left), together with BFAR Director Asis G. Perez, BFAR Region 02 Top Officials and employees come together to witness the ceremonial disposal of worn-out Philippine flag, a practice unique to BFAR Region 02.

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News K ALAP

BFAR urges youths to take part in fishery conservation TUGUEGARAO CITY, CagayanRecognizing the power of youth participation in the society, the Regional Office of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) here has tapped the youth in its advocacy in the management, conservation and preservation of its aquatic and fishery resources.

In its massive Information Education Campaign (IEC) in the region during the month-long advocacy in celebration of the Fish Conservation Week, Director Jovita Ayson said the campaign centers on the youth particularly secondary students in the five provinces of the valley.

The IEC aims to expose the youths to the real and critical scenario of the region’s aquatic resources amid the challenge of the global phenomenon called climate change.

For this year, Ayson said the IEC is also centered on the campaign on BFAR Administrative Circular (BAC) 247, banning the catching of Ludong for 45

High school students listen attentively to the discussion of Mr. Dominador Abalos, PFAO for Nueva Vizcaya, on conservation efforts along fisheries and aquatic resources and programs and projects of BFAR as part of the IEC advocacy in involving the youth. days from October 1 to November 15 of every year to give an opportunity for the fish to reproduce.

Advocacy campaigns on BAC 247 in municipalities and among Ludong

fishers who will be affected by said ban was also initiated by the Fisheries Regulatory and Law Enforcement division. oImelda Silvania

Fishing materials augment fisherfolk’s income and food security TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan - In its move to ensure fisherfolk’s income and food security, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) here awarded additional fishing paraphernalia to registered fisherfolk in Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya.

During the awarding ceremony, four units of fish cage materials were given to Casamacan Fisherfolk Association with 20 active members and other fishery materials like 15 units of non-motorized boat and 15 units of bottom set gill nets were received by the town’s Municipal Fishery and aquatic Resources Management Council (MFARMC).

Fisherfolk in Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya receive their fishing paraphernalia and fishing boats from BFAR Region 02 during an awarding ceremony graced by no less than BFAR Regional Director Jovita P. Ayson and Mayor Norma U. Miguel.

BFAR 02 Regional Director Jovita P. Ayson, assures fisherfolk that strong support from the fisheries bureau will be provided to them provided they are recognized through the Municipal Fisherfolk Registration Program.

Ayson also encourages nonregistered fisherfolk in the region to get their names enlisted in order to be benefited with the livelihood projects and assistance from the government agencies particularly with the Department of Agriculture- Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DABFAR).

As stated in the principles of

Fisherfolk Registration (FishR) program of the said bureau, registered fisherfolk have the high chance to receive livelihood projects and fishing gears and paraphernalia from newly established programs and projects in the future.

Meanwhile, others who joined the said activity were Mayor Norma U. Miguel of Diadi, Provincial Fishery Officer (PFO) Fred A. Bisquera of Nueva Vizcaya, and Provincial Fishery Action Officer (PFAO) of BFAR Emerson S. Tattao.

Other municipalities of Nueva Vizcaya which already received fishing materials were the towns of Villaverde and Aritao with 3 units of non-motorized boat to Balaquit SWIP Fisherfolk Organization and 2 units of non-motorized boat to Kirang SWIP Fisherfolk Association respectively.

Aside from the awarded materials, the bureau marks to award this year two units of fish cages, an addition to the four units awarded last year to Galintuja Fisherfolk Association of Alfonso Castañeda of the same province. oImelda Silvania

News K ALAP

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DENR extends assistance in BFAR’s Bamboo Propagation Project Ms. Lilia De Leon Abel, Regional Technical Director for Research of the DENR Region 02 , briefs technical staff of BFAR region 02 who will be directly involved in the implementation of the Alternative Livelihood Program of bamboo production for fisherfolk who are affected by the ban on catching Ludong.

TUGUEGARAO CITY - Fisheries experts of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources have sought the help of the environment bureau on Bamboo propagation for its Ludong Fisherfolk Livelihood Support Program in its move to aid fishers who will be affected by the 45 day ban on catching of Ludong from October 1 – November 15 of the year as imposed through the BFAR Administrative Circular No. 247.

Actual handling and demonstration on how to propagate bamboo cuttings to planting stage were shown to selected technical staff of the fisheries bureau. Experts from the environment bureau who shared their expertise in bamboo propagation are Ms. Lilia Deleon Abel, Regional Technical Director for Research, Noel Soriano, Chief, Technology Transfer and Extension Division and were assisted by

Forester Pablo Agustin.

Earlier, BFAR has announced that livelihood support program for Ludong fishers are already in place through greening the banks of Cagayan River.

Dr. Evelyn C. Ame, focal person on the Ludong project said that bamboo species was chosen as planting material since this plant are easily grown and is available in the identified reforestation sites.

“Bamboo has many uses, it offers wide economic opportunity for fisherfolk once these plants is fully grown,” says Ame during the hands-on activity.

Regional Director Jovita P. Ayson in a recent statement said that the cash for work principle will be encouraged in the implementation of the plant a tree save ludong program where every fisherfolk will be paid 15 pesos for each seedlings planted. For instance if one fisherfolk will plant 300 bamboo propagules he will be paid 4,500 as payment. oAileen Silva

FSA Program produces 200 fisherfolk graduates TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan - Around 170 fisherfolk from the coastal towns of Gonzaga and Sta. Teresita in this province received their certificate of completion after having completed the twelve lessons on Mudcrab Aquasilviculture Technology espoused under the Fisheries School-on-theAir (FSA) an educational tool being initiated by the region’s fisheries bureau since 2006.

During the onset of the program, there were around 200 fisherfolk enlisted as captive listeners and some of them are identified living near the mangroves of their respective hometown who currently culture Mudcrabs in said mangrove areas.

The said graduates for this year’s FSA finished listening to the said set of modules for two-months which started on August aired in two different local community radio stations Tanguyob ti Gonzaga (DWTG) and Timek ti Sta.

BFAR Assistant Regional Director Milagros C. Morales confers an award to one of the 200 fisherfolk graduates of the School On-the-Air Program, an information tool of BFAR Region 02 to disseminate the agency’s various fishery technologies.

Teresita (DWTS).

Aquasilviculture of Mudcrab is one of the three components of the Philippine National Aquasilviculture Program (PNAP) a banner program of

the department of Agriculture (DA), which allows production of fish in a mangrove forest without damage to the ecosystem. oImelda Silvania

12

News K ALAP

UK-based NGO inks accord on eel conservation with BFAR R02, DENR Following the Elver Fisheries Conservation Technical Forum in May 2013 where a possible collaboration in the conservation of eels involving a foreign non-government organization (NGO) was explored, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been made to this effect in October this year.

The MOU, entered into among the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a UK-based non-government organization, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 02 (BFAR R02), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), is a collaborative conservation program in the Cagayan River in Aparri.

The project was funded under the Darwin Initiative of the UK government and will focus on the utilization of eels (Anguilla spp.) as flagship species for freshwater resource conservation in the Philippines.

In three years, the project intends to “develop an eel recovery program through the overarching aim of securing sustainable eel population and freshwater habitats, and associated equitable fisheries.”

The Darwin Initiative, a UK government grants scheme that helps to protect biodiversity and the natural environment through locally based projects worldwide, earmarked a budget worth £306, 846 spread over a period of three years subsequent the scoping activity and presentation of proposal to the UK government by Dr. Matthew Gollock of the ZSL. BFAR R02 Regional Director Dr. Jovita P. Ayson, citing the ZSL report on the international Anguilla eel trade and the role of the Philippines, said that the country is an important source of the Anguilla eel in Asia, being the home to five of the sixteen known Anguilla species in the world.

The same report mentioned that in 2012 and 2013, the Philippines exported 24% and 44% of the world’s elvers (young eel) trade respectively for the most part to the principal eel farming/ consuming countries and territories in East Asia.

However, the status of the Philippines as an important source, the high demand and the steep value of Anguilla eel represent a significant issue on over-exploitation which, according to Regional Director Ayson,

A kilogram of elvers can cost up to 27, 000 pesos due to high demand from countries in East Asia amidst concerns on conservation and sustainability of this important fishery resources.

is detrimental to the conservation of the species.

pilot farming project and long-term feasibility study for the eel farming.

Alluding to the ZSL report, the regional director shared that four of the native Anguilla eels were recently assessed vis-a-vis the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List criteria, and due to concerns that a variety of threats, including overexploitation, are causing declines in their populations, the aforementioned fish species were subsequently rated as Endangered (A. japonica) and Near Threatened (A. bicolor, A. celebesensis, and A. luzonensis).

Regional Director Ayson feels ecstatic about the program for it will bolster the national and local eel conservation initiatives run by the fisheries bureau in recent years, including the export ban for juvenile eels not exceeding 15cm stipulated in Fisheries Administrative Order No. 242, and the eel stock enhancement program in the Cagayan River since 2008.

The eel recovery program, the ZSL primer stated, is a complementary management for the conservation, catch and trade of eels, and can be achieved through amending local and national legislation and policy to ensure any international trade is sustainable and CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) are being met; developing and integrating from the community to the national level an eel management plan for the Cagayan River basin; establishing people’s organization who shall manage eel fisheries and fisheries dependent data collection at the community level; establishing aquatic survey methods to monitor the freshwater biodiversity in the Cagayan River Basin and mitigate key threats; and, completing a successful

The MOU requires BFAR R02 to act as the main in-country project partner who will guide and support ZSL’s proposed activities; facilitate communication between communities, NGO, and other government organizations and implementation of project activities; advise on legal and trade aspects of the project, host the pilot farming project at existing facilities, and to ensure data and recommendations produced during the project are utilized to the best effect.

DENR, through the Biodiversity Management Bureau and the Protected Areas Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Services, shall provide support and technical assistance relating to biodiversity conservation and protected areas, among others. oDonald Aguinaldo

News K ALAP

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BFAR R02 helps Fisheries scholars...p3 three marine cages, five months after the launching of the project on May 09, 2014. The last of the four cages in the Buguey Lagoon is still ongoing due to staggered stocking.

BFAR R02 Regional Director Dr. Jovita P. Ayson was elated with this development and recalled her eagerness at the start to award this project to the students knowing that it would serve as a training facility for the recipients who are future fishery technicians and an opportunity for them to discover entrepreneurship as a way of fulfilling socio-economic needs especially among the segment of marginal fisherfolk and their families.

Director Ayson related that the project came in fruition when Dr. Eunice A. Layugan, Campus Executive Officer of the CSU-Aparri, forwarded a proposal that will help students who are unable to take their internship outside the region have their practicum at BFAR stations in Aparri, Buguey, Claveria, Iguig, Sta. Ana and Sta. Teresita in Cagayan and San Mateo, Isabela.

The Regional Director added that the proceeds will help the students cover expenses in their thesis.

After seeing the success of the project, the region’s fisheries bureau head said she would encouraged the young entrepreneurs to continue with

the second cycle to increase their capital and earnings.

Jeniffer T. Tattao, project leader for marine and brackishwater cages, reiterated that based on the MOA the project should be maintained using the operating cost provided by the bureau during the first cycle of operation; only the net profit generated from the sale of produce will be given as assistance to the students. However, she discouraged the group to divide the income among them at this early.

She said that the aim of the project in its first cycle is to build up the capital which can be used to expand their project.

Meanwhile, 22-year old Vea Jay R. Ujano expressed his gratitude, saying that working for the project helped train the group for the future most especially in instances where they were able to apply theories they learned from school to actual practice.

Ujano, a BS Fisheries scholar, described that the group was responsible in the maintenance and operation of the project including sampling and monitoring of stocks.

They were assisted by a caretaker who was commissioned by the CSUAparri to safeguard the project and do regular management such as feeding and net cleaning.

In preparation for the project, the group underwent a Handson Training Course on Fish Cage Farming Technology where the young entrepreneurs were trained on net mending and fish cage construction.

The three-day training was conducted by the Regional Fisheries Training Center in Aparri, Cagayan in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Buguey.

In this way the project implementers can impart to the recipients sense of ownership.

Juvy O. Dumaual, 21, said that the project is especially relevant to their future field of work as Fisheries Technologist that is why they will fully take advantage of the project while it is there. She said it is important to widen their knowledge and skills through relevant practice in the field and the techno-demo project was one of those.

Director Ayson expressed her overwhelming happiness on the great accomplishment of the students who, at their early age, were able to prove that they can become successful young entrepreneurs.

The 928-kilogram harvest amounted to a gross income of PhP 83, 515.50 and a net profit of PhP 21, 244.01 for a return on investment (ROI) of 34.12%. oDonald Aguinaldo

Bamboo planting eyed as alternative...p1

Reorganization, strengthening...p9

In the coming weeks, the Bureau together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Public Works and Highways, will assess potential areas for bamboo planting. After which, training on bamboo nursery management will commence prior to actual planting.

Dr. Libunao added that FARMCs shall recommend to the local government units and special agencies guidelines on the development and implementation of projects, and issuance of permits and licenses for the appropriate use of fisheries and aquatic resources, and to ensure that resource use limits and controls are imposed.

Municipalities covered are those encompassed by the Ludong spawning run. In Cagayan, these are Aparri, Camalaniugan, Lallo, Gattaran, Sto. Niño, Alcala, and Amulung. Ilagan City, Palanan, Tumauini, San Mariano, San Agustin, Jones, Dinapigue, Cabagan in Isabela province and Maddela, Cabarroguis, Aglipay and Nagtipunan in Quirino province. oMaximino Prudencio

The region’s fisheries bureau will complement the support with technical assistance such as trainings in fisheries law enforcement, preparation and implementation of FARMC programs and projects, and livelihood assistance.

BFAR RO2 Regional Director Dr. Jovita P. Ayson expressed satisfaction over the FARMC reorganization as it manifests fisherfolk empowerment through their integration in the crafting and implementing of the management, development, and protection initiatives

of fisheries and aquatic resources for sustainable productivity initiated by the government.

Regional Director Ayson noted the valuable contributions of FARMCs in their respective towns such as in rehabilitation and conservation, legislation and prosecution, land and water use, pollution control and fisherfolk resettlement.

BFAR R02 invited Mr. Alexander M. Agra, this year’s Fisherfolk Regional Director and concurrent Chairperson of the Claveria Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council which was awarded the country’s Most Outstanding MFARMC in the Gawad Saka Award for Outstanding Agricultural Achievers in 2013 during the FARMC trainings where he discussed key strategies to ensure success of the FARMC in the municipal level. oDonald Aguinaldo

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Retiree’s Corner K ALAP

Send-off Special:

Ms. Proserfina Reyno BFAR Employee 1978 - 2014

Retiree’s Corner K ALAP

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S

pending 36 years as a public servant is commendable.

Extending one’s help and expertise to the public is laudable. Being dedicated to uplift women’s role in fisheries is priceless.

However, choosing to live fully with family after retiring from public service at the age of early and mid-60 is the most incredible and wonderful moment to cherish in life.

This has been reflected from Ms. Proserfina “Pros” Reyno when she decided to end her career as a public servant on her 60th birthday on December 4, 2014 and chose to spend quality time with her family. She had started her career in the government after being appointed by the former Regional Director Primitivo O. Clave in June 16, 1978.

Reyno had spent her 36 years being a civil servant and had started humbly her career as a clerk in June 1978 in the fisheries bureau. Years after, her selfless commitment to help the bureau satisfy the needs of the fisherfolk’s families through fisheries post-harvest had led her to share her expertise in fish processing. This had contributed significantly to the development of the Post-harvest related programs of the bureau which now strengthens the women’s role in fisheries in region 02.

Among the notable accomplishments she had includes capacitating Rural Improvement Club

(RIC) members through trainings on fish processing and development of valueadded products from seaweeds such as seaweed chips, seaweed canton, and seaweed pickles.

In 1991, her constant dealings with the bureau’s clients also landed her to be the Regional Technical Assistants on Nutrition (RTAN) together with BFAR RO2 Regional Director Jovita P. Ayson as the Regional Nutrition Council (TNC) chairperson. She also played a key role as member of the Regional Technical Evaluation/Validation Team in the

Gawad Saka Search for Outstanding Farm Family.

Recognizing these exemplary contributions she left with the fisheries bureau will last and it will continuously inspire the next generation of public servants in the fisheries sector. She might have retired from the service but her meaningful endeavors will remain in the four corners of BFAR and these will serve as guide to the fisheries sector as it soars high to fulfill its mandates, programs, and projects intended for the people especially the fisherfolk.

BAC 247

LAUNCHING S N A P S H O T S

Linggo ng Pangisdaan HANGING OF STREAMERS

p h o t o g a l l e r y f U N wA L K

M e d i a conference

R E V E R EEN C E TO TH FLAG PHILIPPINE

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1

4

2

Theme:

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“sektor ng mga mangingisdang rehistrado at kinilala

f I S H R validation i e c ADVOCACY

IEC Advocacy

i u u F ACTIVITIES

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5 9

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a, kabalikat sa pagsulong ng pangisdaang masagana.�

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Technology Corner K ALAP

PAYAO It will soon be summer once again, and with it comes the peak fishing season.

Hereunder is a simple technology guide on payao that our fishers might opt to adopt to facilitate fishing.

Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) or locally known as Payao is considered as one of the most effective fishing technologies.

Among known advantages are: • Lesser expenditure on fuel • Lesser time for fishing operation thus more time for other sources of livelihood. This translates to increased income for marginal fisherfolk Payao is composed of a floater anchored at the sea bottom by mooring/anchor line and anchor weight.

Attractant or “habong,” usually made of palm or coconut fronds, is attached hanging from the float.

How do payao works?

• When payao is deployed, algae starts to grow in the habong • Algae attract small fishes that feed upon them • Small fishes, in turn, attract bigger species Payaos can be classified as: a. Shallow payao – less than 500 meters b. Deep payao – depths of 500 to 1500 meters c. Offshore payao - > 1500 m and beyond 15 km from the shore A. Site selection criteria 1. Set depths of not less than 200 m should be made a priority.

In case selected area is < 200 m, it must be in the vicinity of continental shelf (200m) isobaths/contour.

Payao in depths of < 100 m may be constructed using light materials (bamboo, styropor).

2. 1 km minimum distance away from a fish sanctuary, Marine Protected Areas and coral reefs; no lights fishing in payaos adjacent to MPAs. 3. 5 km distance between payaos in municipal waters and 10 km in national waters.

Also consider: 1. Current speed and prevailing wind direction. Payaos should be set in areas with moderate current speed and wind. Wind

and wave can damage a floater, while current and depth can pull the whole FAD into deeper waters and submerge the raft.

2. Typhoon path, exposure to monsoon. As much as possible these areas should be avoided to prevent the loss of the payaws but of human life; 3. Bottom topography and depth.

Bottom should be relatively flat to avoid payaws slipping or rolling to deeper waters.

4. Presence of small fishes particularly tuna and tuna-like species, known migratory route of small pelagic where fish are likely to aggregate B. Operation and Maintenance 1. Harvest payao once schools of fish are observed aggregating in the habong.

2. Harvest can be as regular as possible 3. Only hook & lines are allowed in harvesting fishes within the payao, in region 2.

This is to ensure that smaller fishes are not harvested and will have the chance to mature and breed.

4. Detach floater in times of bad weather.

5. Fisherfolk association to craft management plan and revenue mechanism to ensure sustainability of the project C. Prohibited and closed areas 1. Payao in municipal waters for commercial fishing. No payao will be allowed in municipal waters when it is intended for commercial fishing, unless allowed by the LGU (10.1-15 km) 2. Payao in highly congested navigational routes.

3. Payao in bays, gulfs and other areas under special management including in marine protected areas, marine reserves, fish reserves, refuge and sanctuaries, and areas within the buffer zone of oil rigs.

Materials needed Payao floater: • 50 pcs 10m Full Length Bamboo 4” base diameter • 10 pcs smaller bamboo, 2-3” base diameter • 3 kgs Monoline #200 • 2 kgs Tie wire Cabling and weights: • 36 m cable wire12-14mm diameter • 2 rolls polypropylene rope 20mm diameter x 200m long • 2 rolls polypropylene rope 20mm diameter x 200m long • 6 pcs cable clips 12-14mm • 36 m cable wire12-14mm diameter • 5 pcs double eyed swivel 16mm dia. X 25cm long • 4 pcs thimble 16mm diameter • 6 pcs shackle 16mm x 8-10cm x 10-12 cm long • 2 pcs empty can 16 liters capacity Anchor weights: • 5 bags Portland cement • 0.7 cu.m. sand • 0.5 cu.m. gravel • 6 pcs exterior tire rims