DOST, BFAR Join Forces to Modernize Agriculture and Aquaculture in Dinagat Islands
BUTUAN CITY — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through its Provincial Science and Technology Office – Dinagat Islands (PSTO-PDI), has partnered with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Caraga to advance modern agriculture and aquaculture in the province.
The collaboration, formalized on March 9 through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), is part of the project “Action PDI: Advancing Circular Transformation and Innovation for Modern Agriculture Towards a Progressive Dinagat Islands.” The initiative aims to introduce science-based technologies to enhance crop and fish production, strengthen food security, and improve the livelihoods of local farmers and fisherfolk.
Under the partnership, PSTO-PDI and BFAR’s Provincial Fisheries Office (PFO-PDI) will jointly implement capacity-building programs, technology training, and strategic interventions to promote modern, sustainable farming and aquaculture practices.
DOST Provincial Director Ann O. Tibe highlighted the shared commitment of both agencies: “With strengthened collaboration and local support, Action PDI is expected to accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions, foster resilient agricultural systems, and contribute to the socio-economic development of Dinagat Islands.”
As part of the agreement, PFO-PDI will provide bangus (?????? ??????) fry, feeds, farm supplies, and technical training to equip local fisherfolk and project beneficiaries.
The initiative was further formalized on March 11 with the local government of Libjo through a separate MOA. Libjo Mayor Melody L. Compasivo emphasized the importance of technology-based interventions in boosting local agriculture and aquaculture and strengthening partnerships in science, technology, and innovation.
To jumpstart practical learning, BFAR Caraga conducted a three-day bangus garungan production training from March 17–19 in Sitio Salvador, Barangay Llamera, Libjo. Participants from the Salvador Garungan Fisherfolk Association received hands-on technical instruction and financial management guidance to improve their aquaculture operations.
Through Action PDI, the project seeks to increase local aquaculture productivity, promote self-reliance among fisherfolk, and address the shortage of bangus fingerlings in the province by developing sustainable garungan production.
NPO News Team | Philippine Information Agency - PR
