THE Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Zamboanga Peninsula has distributed around P11.6 million worth of seaweed farming equipment and nursery modules to beneficiaries in Zamboanga City, a BFAR official said Friday, August 8, 2025.
BFAR-Zamboanga Peninsula Director Al-Zath Kunting said the distribution ceremony was held Thursday, August 7, at the agency’s regional office in Zamboanga City.
A total of 300 sets of seaweed farming equipment worth P6.39 million were distributed to 300 individual beneficiaries from six agri-fishery districts: Tumaga (62), Culianan (50), Manicahan (60), Curuan (63), Vitali (63), and Ayala (2).
In addition, five modules of deep-sea seaweed nursery worth P5.21 million were awarded to the following associations: Mampang Aqua-Marine Seaweed Farmers and Fishermen Cooperative, Taluksangay Seaweed Farmers Association, Manicahan Aqua-Marine Farmers Association, Kud Binaluy Farmers and Fisherfolk Association, and Rahma Fisherfolk Association.
“This initiative is part of the national government’s support in strengthening the fisheries sector under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., through the Enhanced Philippine Seaweed Development Program (EPSDP),” Kunting said.
In his message to the recipients, Kunting highlighted BFAR’s continued commitment to the development of seaweed farming in the Zamboanga Peninsula, which plays a crucial role in the livelihood of coastal communities and in promoting sustainable fisheries.
He added that the project underscores BFAR's goal of fostering inclusive, science-based development and raising the incomes of fisherfolk through sustainable seaweed farming initiatives. (SunStar Zamboanga)