PRDP-BFAR Caraga convergence project to address constraints in bangus and tilapia production PRDP Caraga’s I-PLAN component, through its Sub-component supporting the implementation of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization and Industrialization Plan (AFMIP), launched its convergence project with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Caraga on December 5, 2023, at the Masao Technology Outreach Station, Butuan City. The partnership aims to produce an alternative fish feed for bangus and tilapia using raw materials readily available within the region. This locally-produced feed will address high input costs in bangus and tilapia production, making affordable feeds more accessible for small-scale fisherfolks in Caraga. “The high cost of feeds continues to be a challenge in aquaculture. Through this study, we hope to be able to introduce alternative feeds that can easily be formulated by fisherfolks using resources available in their immediate environments,” says Senior Aquaculturist and Masao Technology Outreach
Station Head Dominador G. Maputol. The project, which has stocked 40,000 bangus fry and 40,000 tilapia fry in total, will conduct experimental feeding trials in grow-out production. The results of these trials will serve as the basis for whether or not the locally-produced feeds are ready for mass production. Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council (RAFC) Chairperson Christopher H. Lindo meanwhile emphasized the important role convergence plays in fostering development in the fisheries sector.
“We are very thankful for the support DA PRDP has shown this project. Through convergence and collaboration with different line agencies, we are able to utilize our funds more appropriately. Our next step would be to analyze the various players along the value chain – from the fingerlings to storage to marketing,” Lindo said. RAFC Chairperson Christopher H. Lindo, Masao Technology Outreach Station Head Dominador G. Maputol, Team Bahug Team Leader Gemma A. Asufre, and PRDP Caraga Planning Officer Jonah Ladera led the ceremonial stocking of the last batch of bangus and tilapia fry, signifying the official start of the project.
The ceremonial stocking of the last batch of bangus and tilapia fry signifies the official start of the convergence project. PRDP INFOCUS CARAGA
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