THE Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) has turned over P11.49 million worth of nursery projects and farm implements to seaweed farmers across Zamboanga City as part of BFAR’s Enhanced Philippine Seaweed Development Program (EPSDP).
Isidro Velayo Jr., DA-BFAR Assistant Director for Technical Services, led the ceremonial turnover of the nursery projects and farm implements on behalf of DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel on Friday, April 4, 2025.
Velayo said on Tuesday, April 8, that the projects included five modules of Medium Density Polyethylene (MDPE) deep-sea seaweed nurseries (1-hectare raft method), each worth P1.02 million.
Additionally, 300 sets of seaweed farm implements, valued at P6.39 million, were provided to 300 individual farmers from various associations across Zamboanga City.
Velayo stated that the ceremonial turnover of projects was done in batches, with farmers from the Tumaga District included in the first batch of distribution.
Other districts, such as Ayala, Culianan, Manicahan, Curuan, and Vitali, will receive their inputs in the coming days.
Velayo emphasized that EPSDP supports seaweed farmers by providing technology, capital, and facilities to enhance production.
Prior to the turnover ceremony, Velayo led a site visit and ceremonial seaweed harvest in Dita village, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss issues and strategies aimed at improving the seaweed industry.
A stakeholders’ meeting and consultation was also held at the DA-BFAR Regional Office on R.T. Lim Boulevard, where key stakeholders and partners participated in discussions on ways to enhance the seaweed industry. (SunStar Zamboanga)