Albay
Albay is a province located in the Bicol Region in the southeastern part of Luzon. It is bordered by Camarines Sur to the northwest, Sorsogon to the southeast, and the waters of the Albay Gulf, Lagonoy Gulf, and the Philippine Sea. Legazpi City serves as the provincial capital and is one of the major centers of trade, education, and tourism in the region.
The province is widely known for Mayon Volcano, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the Philippines. Albay has a mix of coastal areas, fertile plains, rolling hills, and volcanic landscapes that support agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and small-scale industries. Its location also makes it highly exposed to typhoons, volcanic hazards, flooding, and landslides.
Albay’s economy is driven by agriculture, fisheries, tourism, trade, and services. Many households depend on farming and fishing as primary sources of income, while urban areas benefit from commercial activities and tourism-related enterprises. Despite its economic potential, rural communities continue to face challenges such as disaster risks, limited livelihood opportunities, and unstable income sources.
Agricultural Sector
Agriculture remains an important livelihood source in Albay, especially in rural and upland communities.
- Rice and corn – Major staple crops grown in lowland and rainfed areas.
- Coconut – One of the province’s major crops, used for copra and coconut-based products.
- Abaca – A traditional high-value crop widely grown in the Bicol Region.
- Vegetables and root crops – Includes cassava, sweet potato, gabi, and other food crops.
- Livestock and poultry – Hogs, cattle, goats, and chickens support household income and local food supply.
Fisheries Sector
Albay has an active fisheries sector supported by its coastal municipalities and rich marine waters.
- Municipal fishing – Coastal fishers catch tuna, mackerel, sardines, squid, and other marine species.
- Aquaculture – Tilapia, bangus, and shrimp are raised in fishponds and coastal areas.
- Seaweed farming – Practiced in selected coastal communities as an additional livelihood.
- Shellfish and crab production – Supports local markets and household income.
Poverty Situation
Albay continues to experience poverty challenges, particularly among farming and fishing households. Frequent typhoons, volcanic hazards, crop losses, and limited livelihood opportunities affect household income. Poverty reduction efforts focus on livelihood assistance, disaster resilience, agricultural productivity, and support for vulnerable communities.
Project Profile
BFAR
The BFAR-SAAD program in Albay helps strengthen fisheries livelihood through:
- Distribution of fingerlings for tilapia, bangus, and other aquaculture projects.
- Provision of fishing gear and equipment for small-scale fisherfolk.
- Support for seaweed farming and other coastal livelihood projects.
- Training on sustainable fishing, aquaculture management, and resource conservation.
| Year Covered | Municipality | Barangay | Project | Association | Members | Input Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Bacacay | Manaet | Milkfish Culture in 100 sqm Springcoil Cage | Manaet Fisherfolks And Seaweed Farmers Association | 24 | 701,910.00 |
| 2025 | Malinao | Tanawan | Tilapia Culture in Pond | Tanawan Farmers Association | 15 | 556,450.00 |
| 2025 | Pio Duran | Malidong | Provision of Various Fishing Gears | Cagbatano Fisherfolk Para Sa Pagbabago Association | 54 | 1,083,300.00 |
| 2025 | Rapu-Rapu | Bilbao | Techno Demo - Milkfish Production | Bilbao Farmers And Fishermen Association | 38 | 629,500.00 |