BFAR-National Mariculture Center

13/05/2026

🐟 Hands-on Technical Skills Training on Milkfish and High-Value Finfish Grow-out Production in Marine Fish Cage (Batch I)

The BFAR-National Mariculture Center successfully conducted an intensive four-day training from May 5-8, 2026, for fisheries technicians and private investors from Davao Oriental and Davao de Oro. The program focused on boosting technical competencies in sustainable mariculture, covering everything from marine cage construction and Good Aquaculture Practices (GAqP) to financial literacy. Participants engaged in vital hands-on activities, including stocking, feeding, and harvesting techniques, ensuring they are fully equipped to support fish food sufficiency and profitable livelihood opportunities in their coastal communities. 🌊⚓

28/04/2026

🌊 Advancing Sustainable Fisheries through Technical Collaboration in Barobo, Surigao del Sur 🌊

Following a request from the LGU of Barobo and the endorsement of BFAR-Caraga Regional Director Omnia B. Olama, the BFAR-National Mariculture Center (NMC) deployed its technical experts and specialized equipment to conduct a comprehensive reassessment of the Barobo Mariculture Park. This joint effort highlights a shared mission to enhance fish production through science-based management.

The four-day activity was aimed at evaluating the current condition of the municipality’s marine protected areas and assessing the status of the mariculture park. By conducting rigorous bathymetric surveys, manta tow assessments, and water quality monitoring, the team gathered essential data to further promote sustainable fisheries management and coastal resource conservation.

This initiative underscores the Municipality of Barobo’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.

27/04/2026

On April 23, 2026, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – National Mariculture Center (BFAR-NMC), in close coordination with the Panabo City Agriculture Office, successfully hosted and assisted the Local Government Unit of Banaybanay, Davao Oriental, during their benchmarking activity at the Panabo Mariculture Park. The collaborative session provided LGU officials with essential technical expertise on fish cage operations, mariculture zoning, and regulatory management. This collaborative effort provided the Banaybanay delegation with the technical and regulatory insights needed to support the development and governance of their own local mariculture initiatives.

10/04/2026

🌊Mapping the future of sustainable livelihoods in Dapa, Surigao del Norte!🌊

During a five-day intensive assessment conducted from March 23 to 27, 2026, the BFAR-National Mariculture Center joined forces with the BFAR-Regional Field Office CARAGA and the LGU of Dapa to evaluate the potential of Siargao’s coastal waters. Using high-tech tools like echo sounders and multi-parameter water sensors, the collaborative team mapped the sea floor and verified that the water quality in Barangays 12, Cambas-ac, and Consolacion is excellent for marine production. This initiative was driven by a shared vision to transform these areas into "mariculture parks," providing local cooperatives with sustainable livelihoods and a steady food supply while reducing the pressure on wild fishing grounds.

Because the municipality is part of a protected landscape and seascape (SIPLAS), the survey placed a heavy emphasis on ecological safety, revealing that sensitive coral reefs and mangroves are located very close to the proposed sites. To protect these treasures, the experts and regional officers concluded that the area is best suited for large-scale seaweed production, which offers a massive potential yield of 1,280 metric tons with a minimal environmental footprint. By following strict "good aquaculture" protocols such as precise feeding schedules and specific cage distancing. LGU Dapa and BFAR aim to prove that a community can successfully boost its economy while remaining a dedicated guardian of its vibrant marine biodiversity.

16/03/2026

13/03/2026

The BFAR-National Mariculture Center (NMC) successfully conducted a comprehensive five-day Technical Environmental Survey in Banaybanay, Davao Oriental, to evaluate the potential for sustainable aquaculture development. The mission commenced with a courtesy call to the LGU Municipal Agriculture Office and an initial ocular survey of the proposed sites, followed by three days of intensive field activities including bathymetric surveys, water quality monitoring, and underwater assessments.

On the final day, the team presented their findings, confirming that base sa Manual of Operation or Field Guide for establishment of Mariculture Park, both areas in Brgy. Maputi and Brgy. Puntalinao, Banaybanay are suitable for Mariculture operation.

This significant assessment was carried out by the dedicated NTES technical team composed of Ma. Lourdes B. Campeon (Aquaculturist II and Head of NTES), April Rose S. Galono (Aquaculturist II), Mark Jay P. Asis (Aquaculturist I), and Lorito L. Silagan, Jr. (Data Encoder III), marking a major step forward for the local fishing community.

Big thanks to LGU Banaybanay and the Municipal Agriculture Office for the warm welcome and support! 🤝 We also appreciate the vital assistance and coordination of BFAR-RFO XI and BFAR PFO Davao Oriental throughout this 5-day survey. Success is truly a team effort! 🐟🌊

11/03/2026

BFAR-NMC SHOWCASES VALUE-ADDED PRODUCTS AT BULAWAN 2026 🐟🌟

The BFAR-National Mariculture Center (NMC) participated in the Bulawan 2026 Agri Trade Fair on February 7, 2026, in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, to promote the center’s Value-Added Products. Led by Ms. Julie Rosos (Aquaculturist I), alongside Ms. Annie Rose Garsota Lanoy and Ms. Yuliya Cobrador (Aquaculturists II), the team showcased innovative processed goods featuring Red Tilapia and Bangus species. During the event, the NMC also provided 2,000 pieces of Red Tilapia fingerlings to a fisherfolk beneficiary from the Municipality of New Bataan to support local aquaculture production.

Additionally, Ms. Juliebee C. Rosos was invited to serve as a judge for the Australian Red Claw Crayfish Cooking Contest, which featured participants from various neighboring municipalities across Davao de Oro. Through this trade fair, BFAR-NMC continues to bridge the gap between mariculture research and the community, ensuring both high-quality fishery products and essential resources reach our local stakeholders.

10/03/2026

🌊 Making Waves for a Cleaner Tomorrow!

The BFAR-NMC team rolled up their sleeves and took action for our environment! On March 6, 2026, our personnel conducted a massive Clean-Up Drive within our fishpond premises and along the Coastal Road of Brgy. Cagangohan, Panabo City.

This initiative was more than just a cleanup, it was a tribute to the strength and leadership of women in our community. In celebration of 2026 National Women's Month, we highlight the vital role women play in environmental stewardship and sustainable fisheries.

By keeping our coastal roads and ponds debris-free, we aren't just cleaning the landscape; we are ensuring a healthier ecosystem for the future.

02/03/2026

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources - National Mariculture Center (BFAR-NMC) proudly joins the entire nation in welcoming the start of National Women’s Month. This annual celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the indispensable role women play in our society, particularly within the fisheries and aquatic sectors. From the resilient fisherwomen who manage our coastal resources to the innovative scientists and dedicated administrative professionals within our agency, women are the backbone of a sustainable "Blue Economy." We celebrate this month to honor their sacrifices, amplify their voices, and acknowledge that their contributions are vital to achieving national food security and economic stability.

With the Philippines taking the helm of the ASEAN Chairship and leading the ASEAN Committee on Women, we stand tall as inheritors of a deep-rooted tradition of equity. To "Lead like the Babaylan" today means navigating the modern challenges of peace, security, and digital transformation with the same fierce, life-affirming wisdom our foremothers once used to guide our islands. As stewards of Bagong Pilipinas, Filipino women are far more than silent partners or mere beneficiaries of regional progress; they are the strategic architects, bold innovators, and steady anchors of sustainability in the ASEAN region.

Our collective mission is to reclaim our rightful place as equals in every sphere of life. To honor this legacy, we issue a call to action for every Filipino woman and girl to LEAD:

L – Liberate yourself from the barriers that limit your potential!
E – Embrace the power to empower—both yourself and others!
A – Assert your voice with courage, truth, clarity, and conviction!
D – Devote your unique talents to the continuous building of a stronger Bagong Pilipinas and a united ASEAN!

At BFAR-NMC, we believe that an empowered woman translates to a strengthened community and a more vibrant maritime nation. Let us continue to work together toward a future where gender equality is not just a goal, but a lived reality for every Filipina.

27/12/2025

Happy Birthday to our dedicated OIC, Mr. Peter M. Cadapan!

The entire BFAR-NMC family is truly grateful for your steady leadership and the vision you bring to our office. Thank you for guiding us with excellence and for your unwavering commitment to our mission. May this year bring you continued success, good health, and much happiness.

Warmest wishes, Your NMC Family

20/11/2025

🎉 Polyculture Success & Community Aid in Panabo City 🐟

The BFAR-National Mariculture Center (BFAR-NMC) successfully conducted the harvest and distribution of its Techno-Demo Project on Polyculture of Milkfish and Siganids in Marine Fish Cage!

The project, which began on July 3, 2025, proved that using standard-sized fingerlings leads to a highly efficient four-month culture period, lowering costs and reducing mortality - a crucial win for sustainable mariclture.

The highlight of the event was the Distribution Ceremony on November 12, 2025.

The ceremony was spearheaded by the BFAR National Director Elizer S. Salilig, MFT., and supported with several private investors and fisherfolk associations in the Panabo City mariculture park, showing strong public-private sector commitment.

The harvested stocks were distributed as part of the livelihood interventions, providing food assistance to organized fisherfolk associations, DSWD-assisted families, CSWDO-assisted institutions and government agencies who safekeep, provide development and welfare for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL).

This project is a clear model for technical innovation, economic efficiency, and community empowerment in the region. We thank our leaders and partners for ensuring that this success directly uplifts our fisherfolk and most vulnerable communities!