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| Samar PLGU partners with BFAR to restore and replenish local waters through tilapia fingerlings seeding. Photo: Samar PIO |
TACLOBAN CITY – The Provincial Government of Samar, in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), launched the tilapia fingerlings seeding program at the Gandara River in Brgy. Casandig, Gandara, Samar on December 7, 2022.
The event marked the latest phase of the Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa (BASIL) Program, which aims to restore the physical condition of local lakes and waterways and replenish them with commercially valuable fish species and aquatic resources.
BFAR's BASIL Program works closely with local government units to achieve these goals, and the Municipality of Gandara requested the fingerlings seeding of the Gandara River. In response, BFAR Region 8 facilitated the provision of 35,000 tilapia fingerlings through the Provincial Fisheries Office.
Tilapia, a fast-growing fish species well-suited to freshwaters, is a highly sought-after commercial resource.
Tilapia farming has become a popular livelihood option in the Philippines, as the fish are easy to breed and grow and are resistant to disease. In addition to providing a valuable source of protein, tilapia farming can also help to reduce poverty and improve food security.
The fingerlings seeding program in Gandara is not the first of its kind in Samar Province. In 2021, similar programs were conducted at the Golden River in Basey and the Calbiga River in Calbiga. A further seeding program is planned for Calbayog City in 2023.
It is part of the Philippine government's broader efforts to promote sustainable development and protect natural resources. By working closely with local communities and government partners, BFAR aims to ensure the success of the BASIL Program and the continued growth of the tilapia farming industry in the Philippines.