The DA-BFAR Caraga officially welcomed its newly installed regional fisherfolk director, Ronie C. Manonag from the municipality of Cagdianao, Province of Dinagat Islands, during the kick-off ceremony of the Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s month held on Friday, May 3, 2024 in Butuan City.
Anchored on the theme: “Kagitingan ng Mangingisdang Pilipino, Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Ipagdiwang Natin Ito”, the regional fisherfolk directorship program is one of the highlighted events of DA-BFAR’s observance of the Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s month-long celebration.
In her message, regional director Omnia B. Olama recognized the unparalleled contribution of the fisherfolk to the development of the fisheries industry and to the nation as a whole.
“This year’s theme resonates deeply with the spirit of resilience and determination that defines the Filipino people. It speaks of the courage and bravery exhibited by our fisherfolk in navigating the vast seas and the commitment of our farmers in cultivating the land, despite the obstacles they encounter,” RD Olama said.
“Let us also take this opportunity to reflect on the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture and in fisheries. We must ensure that our natural resources are preserved for future generations, and that the livelihoods of our farmers and fisherfolk are safeguarded for years to come,” RD Olama added.
RD Olama also congratulated RFD Manonag for being elected as the 2024 RFD in Caraga region.
“Let us remember that the strength of our nation lies in the hands of those who work the land and sea with courage, determination, and dedication. Let us celebrate their ‘kagitingan’ and reaffirm our commitment to building a better, more prosperous future for all Filipinos,” RD Olama concluded.
Senior aquaculturist Ian D. Batitang provided an overview of the RFD program and said that it aims to further dramatize the empowerment and participation of fisherfolk as government partners in the conservation, protection and management of the fisheries and aquatic resources.
RFD Manonag expressed his commitment and dedication as this year’s “Mangingisdang Direktor” in Caraga region.
Regional FARMC program coordinator and training division chief Anna Melissa M. Talavera emphasized the role of the RFD as direct liason between the fisherfolk and the DA-BFAR.
DA-BFAR key officials and members of the management committee, together with some former regional fisherfolk directors and some fisherfolk leaders witnessed the ceremonial installation of RFD Manonag.
RFD Manonag is currently the MFARMC chairperson in the municipality of Cagdianao and at the same time the Provincial Fisherfolk Representative in the Province of Dinagat Islands. He is also an active member of their ‘bantay dagat’ or law enforcement team, and has been actively participating various trainings and workshops related to aquaculture, fishery laws and fisheries management.
For the whole month of May, newly installed RFD Manonag will sit as the Regional Director to gain insights on the DA-BFAR’s operations, and to oversee the development and implementation of programs and initiatives aimed in supporting the fisherfolk and ensuring the long-term viability of the fisheries industry.
#BuwanNgMagsasakaAtMangingisda #TagapagtaguyodNgMalinisAtMasaganangKaragatan #MasaganangAgrikulturaMaunladNaEkonomiya #BagongPilipinas
