BUKIDNON, August 13, 2020 – A feed formulation shed, a mini fish processing shed, and various equipment worth Php 322,670.00 were provided to Don Carlos SAAD Beneficiaries Incorporation (DCSBI) at Purok 7, Kiara, Don Carlos in the province.

The DCSBI, composed of 30 SAAD members, focuses on the improvement of the livelihood of the fisherfolks living in provinces with high poverty incidence.

The interventions were granted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) – Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program. BFAR-10 Regional Director Teodoro A. Bacolod Jr., together with Provincial Fishery Officer (PFO) Marlou N. Fernandez, turned-over the projects to DCSBI, which was represented by chairman Ruben P. Esteban.

“We hope that with this project, it can be of benefit not only for this generation but for generations to come,” said Director Bacolod.

Mr. Esteban expressed his gratitude for the livelihood projects they received from the bureau. “Many projects have now been put up for us for free. I see no reason for us not to do our part, as this project is intended to help improve our livelihood,” added Mr. Esteban.

The feed formulation shed with equipment will prepare feeds using locally available raw materials while reducing the cost of feeds by up to 20% compared to commercial feeds. With this, tilapia farming in upland areas becomes more practical and profitable.

Moreover, the prolific breeding characteristic of Tilapia results in size variation at harvest, which is not ideal for the market. This can be addressed by the establishment of mini fish processing shed and promotion of tilanggit processing – wherein small size Tilapia with an average body weight of 50g/pc are dried and packed, commanding a high market price of Php 1,000 per kg.

The SAAD Program in Bukidnon is now on its final phase of implementation. In its third and final year, the beneficiaries are provided with facilities that would help them process their feeds to reduce their cost of operations as well as improve their post-harvest capabilities to increase the market value of their products. ###

Writer: Ibrahim R. Sanggoyod, BFAR-10 SAAD Focal Person