BFAR rolls out national search for clean, sustainable coastal communities

 BFAR rolls out national search for clean, sustainable coastal communities

BATANGAS CITY (PIA) — Coastal and inland communities are set to receive greater recognition for sustainable fisheries and environmental conservation efforts following the launch of Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources’ (BFAR) “Malinis at Masaganang Katubigan” program in Batangas on Thursday, May 28.

According to BFAR Calabarzon, the initiative marks the revival and expansion of the Bureau’s earlier program, “Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan,” which was first introduced in 2016. With its relaunch, the program now broadens its scope by including not only coastal communities but also inland fisheries communities, making the competition more inclusive and comprehensive.

BFAR said the program aims to promote an ecosystem-based and inclusive approach to fisheries management amid growing environmental challenges such as climate change, habitat degradation, and increasing competition for water resources. 

It added that through the initiative, the agency hopes to encourage local government units to strengthen sustainable fisheries practices and environmental protection efforts in their respective communities

The program will follow a three-year cycle. During the first year, BFAR will conduct information dissemination and capability-building activities for participating local government units (LGUs) and stakeholders. The second year will focus on the search for outstanding coastal fisheries communities, while the third year will highlight inland fisheries communities. 

Municipalities and cities joining the competition will be evaluated based on several criteria, including sustainable fisheries management, science-based ecosystem conservation, effective fisheries governance, and the cleanliness of coastal and inland waters.

In his message, BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig emphasized that the program serves as an important platform to further strengthen the protection and conservation of the country’s aquatic resources.

Salilig noted that while the original program focused solely on marine waters, the expanded initiative now covers inland bodies of water such as rivers and lakes, helping promote the protection of all aquatic ecosystems.  

He also encouraged LGUs across the country to actively participate, highlighting that millions of pesos worth of prizes await winning communities and that the incentives could greatly benefit local development efforts.

Alongside the launch, BFAR also held the Fishcore Exhibit, which featured artworks made from marine waste materials crafted by women from various regions across the country. The exhibit highlighted environmental awareness and creative recycling initiatives aimed at promoting marine conservation.

Region 7 emerged as the overall champion in the exhibit competition, followed by Caraga Region and the National Capital Region. The Caraga Region also received the People’s Choice in Social Media award. Winners received cash prizes and plaques of recognition.

Prior to the official launch, BFAR and partner agencies also conducted a “Scubasurero” underwater cleanup and coastal clean-up drive along the shores of Barangay Olo-Olo. The activity collected more than 30 sacks of garbage weighing over 200 kilograms.

The cleanup drive was participated in by representatives from Bantay Dagat, barangay officials, the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Maritime Police, BFAR, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and other stakeholders, demonstrating a collective effort to protect and preserve the country’s coastal and aquatic resources. (MPDC, PIA Batangas)