BFAR Region 9

04/10/2026

𝐁𝐅𝐀𝐑-𝐈𝐗 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐙𝐂 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭

ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region IX (DA-BFAR IX) joined government agencies, industry stakeholders, and business partners during the 2026 Zamboanga City Industry Summit with the theme, “Strengthening Value Chains and Market Competitiveness,” held on September 29, 2026, at the Royce Convention Center, Grand Astoria Hotel, Zamboanga City.

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Zamboanga City Office in partnership with the Office of the City Agriculturist of the City Government of Zamboanga, the summit gathered representatives from various priority industries, including the fish and seaweed sectors, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), industry associations, and other stakeholders to strengthen local industries and establish stronger business linkages.

The activity aimed to enhance collaboration among industry players by promoting value chain development, improving market competitiveness, sharing industry knowledge, and creating opportunities for partnerships among key stakeholders.

As the lead government agency responsible for the development of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, BFAR-IX participated in the Industry Showcase Booth Competition, highlighting the region’s fisheries products, innovations, value-adding initiatives, and programs that support industry growth.

Through its showcase booth, BFAR-IX featured the diverse fisheries resources of Region IX and emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, fisherfolk organizations, cooperatives, enterprises, and private sector partners in advancing a sustainable and competitive fisheries industry.

The showcase also provided an opportunity to promote locally produced fisheries commodities and demonstrate how BFAR programs contribute to livelihood development, enterprise growth, value addition, and improved market access for fisheries stakeholders.

02/10/2026

𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐊𝐋𝐘 𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆

Here are the prevailing prices of fish and fishery products in major public wet markets in Zamboanga Peninsula Region as of September 28 -October 2,,2026.

01/10/2026

Shellfish Bulletin No. 24
Series of 2026
01 October 2026

Shellfish collected and tested from Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur; Tantanang Bay in Zamboanga Sibugay Province; and Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar are 𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐋𝐋 𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄 for Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP) or toxic red tide that is beyond the regulatory limit.

All types of shellfish and 𝑨𝒄𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝒔𝒑. or alamang gathered from these areas are 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐒𝐀𝐅𝐄 for human consumption.

Fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs are safe for human consumption provided that they are fresh and washed thoroughly, and internal organs such as gills and intestines are removed before cooking.

30/09/2026

Sharing from BFAR Philippines

Shellfish Bulletin No. 23
Series of 2026
28 September 2026

Shellfishes collected and tested from Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur; Tantanang Bay in Zamboanga Sibugay Province; Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar; and South Bais Bay in Negros Oriental are 𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐋𝐋 𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄 for
Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP) or toxic red tide that is beyond the regulatory limit.

All types of shellfish and 𝑨𝒄𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝒔𝒑. or alamang gathered from these areas are 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐒𝐀𝐅𝐄 for human consumption.

Fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs are safe for human consumption provided that they are fresh and washed thoroughly, and internal organs such as gills and intestines are removed before cooking.

28/09/2026

DA-BFAR IX Strengthens FLE in Tabina

IN PHOTOS | Tabina, Zamboanga del Sur. The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region IX conducted a two-day Fishery Law Enforcement Training (FLET) for Bantay Dagat members and volunteers in Tabina, Zamboanga del Sur, on September 23–24, 2026.

The training aimed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of Bantay Dagat members in implementing fishery laws and regulations, particularly in monitoring and enforcement activities within municipal waters. It also helped participants better understand their roles and responsibilities in protecting aquatic resources and promoting responsible fishing practices.

As community-based fishery law enforcers, Bantay Dagat members play an important role in preventing illegal and destructive fishing activities and supporting the sustainable management of local fisheries. The training also highlighted proper enforcement procedures and the importance of coordination among government agencies, local authorities, and fishing communities.

28/09/2026

FMA 4 Holds Second Harvest Strategy and SAG-TWG Meeting

IN PHOTOS | Zamboanga City # # # The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office IX, through the FMA 4 Secretariat, conducted the Second Phase Harvest Strategy and Second Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) and Technical Working Group (TWG) Meeting for CY 2026, continuing the development and refinement of the Harvest Strategy for sardines and small pelagic fish in FMA 4.

The meeting continued the discussions from the previous workshop held on July 7–8, 2026. SAG and TWG members reviewed proposed management measures, activities, targets, timelines, budget requirements, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and policy interventions to support the sustainable management of sardines and small pelagic fish stocks in FMA 4.

Among the key areas discussed were the development and approval of the IUUF Reduction Plan, its roll-out and adoption by LGUs, the harmonization of fisheries ordinances, and the development of policies covering fishing vessels, fishing gears, and fishing capacity.

The group also tackled measures to regulate the catch of juvenile sardines, including policy formulation, stakeholder consultations, workshops, deliberations, approval, and adoption by LGUs within FMA 4. The conduct of boat and gear inventories and the preparation of comprehensive socio-economic profiles of fisherfolk were also emphasized to help determine and manage fishing capacity.

The proposed attrition or reduction of commercial and municipal fishing vessels was another major agenda. The process includes the development of attrition guidelines, review by the SAG, presentation to the FMA Management Board, stakeholder consultations, further deliberations by the SAG and TWG, and the succeeding recommendation and approval processes.

The meeting also highlighted the need for clear and consistent communication strategies to keep stakeholders and the public informed about the Harvest Strategy, stock assessment results, scientific findings, FMA 4 accomplishments, policies, research activities, and consultation workshops.

On the second day, the participants continued the deliberation on the amended BAC-255, covering its area of application, fishing activities, prohibited activities, closed fishing season, mandatory review and adjustment mechanisms, definitions of terms, fishing gears, and the proposed creation of a Technical Working Group.

The two-day meeting brought together the SAG, TWG, FMA 4 Management Board, concerned government agencies, LGUs, and other stakeholders to further strengthen the development of a science-based and participatory Harvest Strategy for sardines and small pelagic fisheries.

The continuing technical discussions, scientific assessments, stakeholder consultations, and policy development form part of the collective efforts to improve fisheries management and sustain sardine and small pelagic fish stocks in FMA 4.

26/09/2026

Sharing from BFAR SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula

BFAR SAAD ZamPen Turns Over Post Harvest Facilities to Fisherfolk Groups in ZDS

JOSEFINA, SOMINOT, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR, September
23-24, 2026 # # # The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Zamboanga Peninsula Region, through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II, turned over Post-Harvest Shared Station Facilities to two fisherfolk associations.

The activities included the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Josefina Fisherfolk Association (JFA) in Josefina on September 23 and Sominot Upland Backyard Fish Farmers Association (SUBFFA) in Sominot on September 24.

Regional Director Al-Zath K. Kunting represented DA-BFAR during the activities and formalized the partnership with the beneficiary associations and their respective local government units.

Mayor Alberto M. Etulle, Municipal Agricultural Officer Jonathan A. Conejos, and JFA President Jesus M. Pligo of LGU-Josefina and
Vice Mayor Proceso S. Estrada and Administrative Officer Johnriel D. Melo represented Mayor Donna Kathlyn D. Melo, Municipal Agriculturist Nasaria Gavin and SUBFFA President Virgilio Lobitaña Sr. of LGU-Sominot, ZDS graced and supported the said event.

The Post-Harvest Shared Station Facilities will provide the associations with designated spaces and support facilities for post harvest handling and other related activities. The intervention complements their existing fisheries livelihood activities and aims to help them better manage their products and sustain their operations.

During the turn over, BFAR reminded the beneficiary associations to properly use and maintain the facilities and ensure that these continue to benefit their members.

The assistance forms part of the SAAD Phase II interventions for organized fisherfolk groups, supporting their livelihood activities and strengthening community-based fisheries enterprises.

Writer: Jeric B. Cabus, Area Coordinator-PPMSO-ZDS
Photo/Video Credits: RPMSO-IX Personnel

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD, kaagapay sa maunlad na buhay

26/09/2026

Sharing from BFAR SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula

𝐁𝐅𝐀𝐑-𝐈𝐗 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠

DIPOLOG CITY, Zamboanga del Norte | September 14–15, 2026 – The Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Phase II Program of the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Zamboanga Peninsula Region conducted the Empowering Fisherfolk Enterprises Training on Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Human Resource, and Financial Management.

The two-day activity aimed to strengthen the entrepreneurial and management skills of fisherfolk beneficiaries from Mutia Farfish Association, Sinipay Farfish Association, Rizal Subanen Fishermen Association, and Mauswagon Farmers and Fisherfolk Association to help them establish and sustain productive livelihood enterprises.

The training covered key areas in business management, including entrepreneurship, marketing, human resource, and financial management. Prof. Rei Chino C. Pua discussed business development strategies and guided participants in assessing their enterprises through the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis.

Meanwhile, Prof. Cris Edwin B. Banolos provided insights on financial management, including budgeting, recordkeeping, and sound decision-making to support the sustainability of their businesses. The activity also helped fisherfolk groups gain practical knowledge and confidence. All resource speakers came from University of the Philippines-Los Baños - Department of Agribusiness Management and Entrepreneurship (UPLB-DAME).

Writer: Ma. Christina I. Gil, Technical Writer, RPMSO
Photo Credits: RPMSO Team

About DA-BFAR SAAD Phase 2:

The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-BFAR SAAD) Program Phase 2 aims to contribute to poverty reduction and improve the living conditions of vulnerable fisherfolk and their communities by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and support for poor fishing sectors. These interventions intend to complement the DA banner programs and assist beneficiaries in establishing community-based fishery enterprises. The BFAR-SAAD strives to enhance food security and promote economic growth in targeted areas across the Philippines.

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD: Kaagapay sa Maunlad na Buhay

26/09/2026

Sharing from BFAR SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula

𝐁𝐅𝐀𝐑 𝐈𝐗-𝐒𝐀𝐀𝐃 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐬 ₱𝟐.𝟑𝟒-𝐌 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐅𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐤 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐙𝐃𝐒 𝐙𝐀𝐌𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐀 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐒𝐔𝐑

September 10-11, 2026 # # # The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Zamboanga Peninsula Region through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II, has completed the distribution of ₱2,342,570.00 worth of livelihood inputs to four fisherfolk associations in Zamboanga del Sur. The assistance went to the Josefina Fisherfolk Association (JFA) of Josefina, Sominot Upland Backyard Fish Farmers Association (SUBFFA) of Sominot, Tigbao Freshwater Fisherfolk Association (TFFA) of Tigbao, and Danan Small Fisherfolk Association (DSFA) of Vincenzo Sagun.

For their aquaculture activities, the three associations received a total of 1,490 bags of tilapia feeds and 211,020 pieces of tilapia fingerlings. The inputs will support their first cropping cycle, while the production plan also allows them to continue with a second cycle to sustain their fish production.
DSFA also received 70 sets of hook-and-line fishing gear, with 35 sets allocated for sailfish fishing and another 35 sets for tanigue fishing. The additional gear will help the association expand its fishing activities and provide its members with more livelihood opportunities.

The assistance is part of BFAR IX-SAAD's continuing support to qualified fisherfolk associations in identified communities. Through the provision of production inputs and other livelihood assistance, the program helps beneficiaries increase production, generate income, and strengthen their capacity to manage their projects.

Writer: Jeric B. Cabus, Area Coordinator, PPMSO-ZDS Photo Credits: Margie T. Fuentes, Area Coordinator, PPMSO-ZDS; Dave R. Fundador, FRO-I; and Josefina-Agri-Advocates

About DA-BFAR SAAD Phase 2:
The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-BFAR SAAD) Program Phase 2 aims to contribute to poverty reduction and improve the living conditions of vulnerable fisherfolk and their communities by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and support for poor fishing sectors. These interventions intend to complement the DA banner programs and assist beneficiaries in establishing community-based fishery enterprises. The BFAR-SAAD strives to enhance food security and promote economic growth in targeted areas across the Philippines.

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD: Kaagapay sa Maunlad na Buhay