BUTUAN CITY – “The best feeds are the owner’s footprints,” remarked Michael Rivera, a seasoned bangus grower from Butuan City, as he shared his inspiring success story during the Credit and Investment Forum for Bangus Commodity on September 19, 2024. The forum, held at the Regional Fisherfolk Training Center in Butuan City, aimed to boost the viability and sustainability of the bangus industry, a key commodity in the Caraga Region.

The event, organized by the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Caraga, gathered representatives from government agencies, the private sector, and local bangus growers from Agusan del Norte. The forum served as a collaborative platform to strengthen support systems and improve the growth potential of the region’s bangus industry.

In line with this effort, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) highlighted the array of services available to bangus growers, while the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) discussed social programs aimed at supporting the livelihoods of bangus farming families. The Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) provided insights into credit and financing opportunities for fisherfolk, and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) presented options for crop insurance and disaster preparedness to safeguard the industry against unforeseen risks.

Private sector players, including major feed suppliers such as New Hope Liuhe, Santeh Feeds Corporation, Pilmico Foods Corporation, and Charoen Pokphand Foods Philippines Corporation, showcased innovations in feed production. Their presentations underscored the importance of high-quality feed and meeting the nutritional needs of bangus to enhance production and profitability.

The event also included an open forum, where participants were able to discuss pressing issues, raise questions, and exchange ideas on refining strategies for a more resilient and sustainable bangus industry.

Spearheaded by DA-BFAR Caraga’s Fisheries Post-Harvest and Marketing Section, the credit and investment forum was one of the key activities in the week-long celebration of Fish Conservation Week. It highlights the regional bureau’s ongoing efforts to support sustainable aquaculture and ensure the long-term success of the bangus industry in Caraga. (Andy T. Ordoña, Information Officer, DA-BFAR Caraga)

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