By Gerry Lee Gorit
The recently held Fisheries Stakeholders Forum at the Grand Caprice, Limketkai Drive, Cagayan de Oro City, served as an important platform for fishermen from all over Misamis Oriental to unite and address pressing issues related to their livelihood.
The primary objective of the gathering was to foster discussions on the challenges, problems, and concerns faced by the local fishing community. Additionally, it featured collaborations with several governmental agencies, including the Provincial Agriculture Office, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Region X, Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Region X, Philippine Coast Guard – Northern Mindanao, Maritime Industry Authority – Region X, and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation -Region X.
Key topics of discussion included Policies & Regulations in the Fisheries Sector, Guidelines and Requirements for Provincial Microfinance Unit-Livelihood for Economic Recovery and Acceleration Program, and a dedicated Open Forum for fishermen to voice their concerns.
The event was initiated by Governor Peter “Sr. Pedro” M. Unabia, underscoring the significance of addressing the challenges faced by the local fishing industry.
Notable figures present at the forum included BFAR – Region X Provincial Fishery Officer Ms. Arlene B. Novo, DENR – Region X Conservation and Development Division Assistance Chief Forester Mercedita G. Barbarona, PCG – Northern Mindanao Coast Guard Lieutenant Sergeant Mr. Kirk C. Acdal, and Maritime Industry Authority – Region X Senior Development Specialist Engr. Louana C. Acosta.
Luther Enerio Alison, President of the Misamis Oriental Federated Fisherfolks Association, expressed gratitude for the opportunity provided by the governor to tackle the problems affecting fishermen’s livelihoods.
As outlined in Governor Unabia’s PAGLAUM Development Agenda, with a focus on Agriculture Development for Poverty Eradication, these initiatives aim to provide crucial support and services to the fishing and farming communities, contributing to food security for the province’s residents.
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