By Rowena Cruz Local government officials led by Atty. Keith Micah D.L. Tan, Mayor Rosalina Visorde and BFAR representatives gathered in Bar...
 |
| Local government officials led by Atty. Keith Micah D.L. Tan, Mayor Rosalina Visorde and BFAR representatives gathered in Barangay Atulayan, Calauag, Quezon for the recent groundbreaking ceremony of a new Multi-species Legislated Marine Hatchery. (BFAR CALABARZON) |
CALAUAG, Quezon - Known as the "Crab Capital of the Philippines," Calauag is a fitting location for the new Multi-species Legislated Marine Hatchery. The facility, spanning approximately 2,000 square meters, will be the ninth of ten legislated hatcheries being built in various municipalities in the 4th District of Quezon Province.
This project is pursuant to Republic Act No. 10946, which mandates the establishment of a multi-species marine hatchery in Calauag. It is designed to serve as a breeding ground for mangrove crab instar, ensuring a consistent supply for grow-out operations.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held on January 21st in Barangay Atulayan, Calauag, for the construction of this new hatchery. The ceremony marked the beginning of construction for this vital facility, which is expected to significantly benefit the local community.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the sustainability and productivity of the Philippine fishing industry, according to BFAR. Authorities expect that establishing these hatcheries across the 4th District of Quezon Province will increase the supply of mangrove crab. This will lead to improved livelihoods for local fisherfolk and contribute to food security in the region.
"This hatchery represents a significant investment in the future of our fishing industry," said Calauag Mayor Rosalina Visorde during the ceremony. "We are confident that this project will not only enhance our mangrove crab production but also uplift the lives of our fisherfolk and their families by providing a sustainable source of income."
Echoing the sentiment of shared responsibility, Mayor Visrode also emphasized the importance of community involvement in the project. "This hatchery belongs to the people of Calauag," he stated. "We encourage our fisherfolk and local communities to actively participate in its operations and management to ensure its success and longevity."
The groundbreaking ceremony was led by local government officials of Calauag and attended by key figures, including Atty. Keith Micah D.L. Tan, Congressman of the 4th District of Quezon Province. BFAR personnel were also present, notably Mr. Emmanuel Asis, National Focal Person for Legislated Hatchery, and Mr. Allan A. Castillo, Head of Fisheries Management, Regulatory and Enforcement Division and Provincial Fisheries Officer of Quezon Province.
"This hatchery is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the local government, BFAR, and our dedicated fisherfolk," said Atty. Tan during the ceremony. "We can ensure the sustainable growth of our fishing industry and provide a brighter future for the people of Calauag through collaborative efforts."
Atty. Tan also highlighted the hatchery's role in promoting environmental sustainability. "This project will help reduce pressure on wild crab populations and encourage responsible aquaculture practices," he explained. "We are committed to protecting our marine resources for future generations."
Mr. Castillo, representing BFAR4A Regional Director Sammy A. Malvas at the event, highlighted the hatchery's potential to diversify income sources for local fisherfolk. "This hatchery will not only focus on mangrove crab but also on other commercially important species," he explained.
Recognizing the importance of local expertise and ownership, Mr. Castillo emphasized that the hatchery's success relies heavily on collaboration and knowledge sharing. He assured the community of BFAR's dedication to providing continuous support to the project, including technical assistance, training programs, and resources to empower local communities in managing and sustaining the hatchery.
"We are committed to providing technical assistance and training to local communities to ensure the successful operation of this hatchery," Mr. Castillo added. "We believe that this project will serve as a model for sustainable aquaculture development in the region." The regional legislated hatchery team, led by Ms. Anna Liza S. Palis, also expressed their support for this initiative.
In addition to boosting production, the hatchery will provide a controlled environment for breeding and raising crab instar, helping to ensure a consistent supply of juvenile crabs for grow-out operations. This controlled environment will reduce pressure on wild crab populations and promote responsible aquaculture practices. The Calauag hatchery is expected to be operational within the next few months.
Looking ahead, local communities and fisherfolk organizations will be actively involved in the hatchery's management and operation. This collaborative approach aims to foster a sense of ownership and ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the project. This participatory approach is crucial for ensuring the hatchery benefits the community and remains a valuable resource for generations to come.
No comments