SEAFDEC/AQD Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center | Aquaculture Department
By Development Communication Section
SEAFDEC/AQD Chief Dr. Felix Ayson, Training and information head Dr. Evelyn Grace Ayson and Information assistant Mr. Caryl Vincent Genzola had a consultation with officers of BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources) Region 13 as well as with Provincial Fisheries Officers of CARAGA held 10 September in Surigao City.
The consultation is a preliminary activity in preparation for the implementation of the USAID-funded Philippine Cold Chain Project by Winrock International (an international non-government organization that implements developmental projects worldwide). The project approach includes improvements in agriculture & fisheries productivity and trade. AQD partners with Winrock for the fisheries and aquaculture component of the project. AQD’s activity will focus on capacity building in aquaculture and management/enhancement of fisheries resources.
During the consultation, important aquaculture commodities in the region were identified. It was agreed that tilapia, catfish and milkfish have the best potential, while mud crab was identified as the most promising species that is still abundant in the natural waters. The potential for increased productivity, prospects for marketing and improved trade for each commodity were discussed. Moreover, the status of important fisheries resources in the region was tackled.
Prior to this meeting, AQD has been in consultation with BFAR CARAGA regarding the operation of its new community-based multi-species hatchery facilities in Cortez, Surigao del Norte. On the same trip, the AQD team also visited the hatchery facilities to observe its operations and had a consultation with the technical staff.
