P5 million for seaweed propagation in Central Visayas

THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 7 has allotted an additional P5 million for seaweed propagation in the region to help empower the seaweed community and farmers.

“The total budget for the seaweed industry for BFAR in Region 7 is almost P85 million for this year because this seaweed industry is also one of the core commodities that boost the production of the fisheries, especially in the aquaculture sector,” said BFAR 7 provincial fishery officer Joel Clapano.

The funds will be used to establish two laboratory units for seaweed culture in Bantayan in northern Cebu and expand seaweed fishery laboratory culture in Ubay, Bohol. The money will also be used to purchase four mechanical dryers for seaweed production, among other programs this year.

Clapano said seaweed farming relatively has a low start-up cost and fast returns, while requiring minimal care. Harvest can be done within 45 to 60 days.

The only existing and operational seaweed laboratory in the region is in Sinandigan, Ubay, Bohol. The propagules from this laboratory are given to beneficiaries free of charge.

Beneficiaries are registered fisherfolk and associations or cooperatives endorsed by the local government unit. The area should be checked and approved by the BFAR before handing over the seaweed propagules.

“We have now distributed almost 15 metric tons of seaweed propagules coming from our lab this year. Hopefully, we can increase it in the coming semesters,” Clapano said. / Divine Grace Bendanillo, CNU Intern