SURIGAO DEL SUR — In line with its monitoring and evaluation activities for systematic data gathering, analysis, and implementation oversight, personnel from the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR)–Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Caraga Program Phase II conducted assessment visit for six fisherfolk associations across five municipalities in the province from January 27 to 29, 2026.

SDA-BFAR SAAD assessed the Palo-Alto Fishermen Association and Maribojoc Valencia Fishermen Association in Lingig, which received shallow payao projects with fiber-reinforced plastic boats and fishing gears, along with the Zone 1 Bay Fisherfolk Association in Lanuza engaged in milkfish culture in ponds and the San Miguel Fishpond Operators Association implementing tilapia culture in ponds.
Meanwhile, activities in Barobo covered the Hunop Rizal Fishermen Association conducting seaweed farming, while in Tagbina, the Doña Carmen–Ugoban–Greenfield Tilapia Growers Association carried out tilapia production.
Surigao del Sur provincial fishery officer Julius Sabino, and alternate officer-in-charge Jun Mark Guerra of the Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Unit, led the activity together with the implementers from the Regional Program Management Support Office and the Provincial Fisheries Office to assess project implementation for the 2023–2025 cycle.

SDuring the field visit, beneficiaries reported issues related to project management, including the effects of natural calamities on production and difficulties for SAAD-funded projects.
Despite these constraints, they acknowledged the continued support provided by BFAR through the SAAD Program, highlighting its contribution to strengthening livelihoods in the community.
The monitoring team identified two associations from San Miguel and Tagbina that have sustained their aquaculture operations and are now set to fund their third cropping cycle using profits from their previous ventures.
Report and Photos by BFAR-SAAD Caraga RPMSO

About DA-BFAR SAAD Phase 2:

SThe Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-BFAR SAAD) Program Phase 2 aims to contribute to poverty reduction and improve the living conditions of vulnerable fisherfolk and their communities by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and support for poor fishing sectors. These interventions intend to complement the DA banner programs and assist beneficiaries in establishing community-based fishery enterprises. The BFAR-SAAD strives to enhance food security and promote economic growth in targeted areas across the Philippines.

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