BUTUAN CITY — The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Caraga officially launched its observance of the National Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month (NFFM), honoring the vital role of the country’s food producers under this year’s theme: “Pagbibigay-pugay para sa Magsasaka’t Mangingisda sa gitna ng hamon at krisis.”
The kick-off ceremony, held Monday, May 4, also marked the formal installation of Marjun B. Compe of Tubajon, Dinagat Islands, as the region’s newly designated Regional Fisherfolk Director (RFD).
In her message, regional director Omnia B. Olama underscored the indispensable contribution of fisherfolk to both the fisheries industry and national development, emphasizing that progress in the sector hinges on collective effort.
“To our partners in government and local communities, your role is vital. Progress in the fisheries sector is only possible through strong collaboration, shared responsibility, and unified action,” RD Olama said.
The regional director also highlighted that DA-BFAR cannot fulfill its mandate alone, expressing gratitude to stakeholders who continue to support the bureau’s programs and advocacies.
“The Bureau remains steadfast in its commitment to support our fisherfolk through sustainable fisheries management, strengthened coastal resource protection, and expanded livelihood opportunities that build resilience for the future,” she added.
RD Olama also called on the public and stakeholders to go beyond recognition and translate appreciation into concrete support for farmers and fisherfolk.
“As we celebrate the Farmers and Fisherfolk Month, may we go beyond recognition and turn our gratitude into action—by supporting local products, strengthening policies that protect our producers, and creating more opportunities so that no farmer or fisher is left behind,” the regional director said.
RD Olama further encouraged DA-BFAR personnel to actively support local fisherfolk by patronizing their products, stressing that food security is foundational to national security.
“Because at the end of the day, when there is food security, there is national security—and it all begins with all of us,” Olama emphasized.
Anchored on the sub-theme, “Boses ng Mangingisdang Pilipino, sa Bagong Pilipinas, ipagpugay natin ito!”, the Regional Fisherfolk Directorship program stands as one of the highlights of the month-long celebration. The initiative aims to amplify fisherfolk participation in governance and policy-making.
Regional FARMC program coordinator and Training Division chief Anna Melissa M. Talavera provided an overview of the program, noting that it seeks to strengthen fisherfolk empowerment and engagement as partners of government in the conservation, protection, and management of aquatic resources.
Talavera also emphasized the role of the RFD as a direct liaison between fisherfolk communities and DA-BFAR, ensuring that grassroots concerns are reflected in policies and programs.
In his acceptance message, newly installed regional fisherfolk director Marjun B. Compe expressed deep gratitude and humility as he assumed the role entrusted to him by the fisherfolk sector.
“Ako mapasalamaton kaayo ug mapainubsanon nga modawat sa responsibilidad isip Regional Fisherfolk Director. Daghang salamat sa inyong pagsalig ug suporta,” Compe said.
RFD Compe also acknowledged the leadership of his predecessor, RFD Mahalie Robantes, recognizing the strong foundation laid for the continued advancement of the sector.
“Gusto usab nakong pasalamatan ang atong miaging lider sa iyang maayong pagpangulo ug mga nahimo para sa sektor. Ang iyang nabilin nga pundasyon atong ipadayon ug palig-onon,” the regional fisherfolk director added.
Compe emphasized that the responsibility of leadership is shared among all stakeholders, calling for unity and collective action among fisherfolk and partners.
“Sa akong mga kauban nga mangingisda ug mga katuwang, kining responsibilidad dili lang ako—ato kining tanan. Magtinabangay kita sa pagpanalipod sa atong kadagatan ug sa pagpaayo sa kinabuhi sa atong mga mangingisda,” the Tubajon MFARMC added.
Key officials of DA-BFAR Caraga, members of the management committee, former RFDs, and fisherfolk leaders witnessed the ceremonial installation of RFD Compe.
For the duration of May, Compe will assume the role of Regional Director, providing him with firsthand experience in the bureau’s operations and leadership. RFD Compe is expected to help oversee the development and implementation of programs aimed at supporting fisherfolk and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the fisheries sector. (Andy T. Ordoña, Information Officer, DA-BFAR Caraga)
