Mindanaotoday.com | BFAR-10 empowers woman-led fisherfolk group
By: Christine Lynn Viajante
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – In a move to support women’s empowerment in the fisheries sector, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-10 (BFAR-10) recently handed over post-harvest equipment to the Tagpuangi Fisherfolk Association (TAGFA), here at the conference hall, during the closing program of the 2023 Women’s Month Celebration recently.
The equipment is a large-capacity pressure cooker aimed at improving the efficiency and quality of the association’s value-added seafood production.
With this essential cooking tool, the TAGFA women can now process their catch faster and more hygienically, resulting in a longer shelf life and higher market value for their products.
“We are very thankful to BFAR-10 for recognizing our efforts and providing us with this equipment that would greatly help us improve our livelihoods and contribute to the development of our community,” said Lilian Antigua, TAGFA president.
Founded in the year 2007, the 15-year-old association has an inspirational record of hard work strutting its way up to the markets in the suburbs of the city.
To date, the group has a total of 62 active members, 35 male and 27 female members.
Despite their limited resources, they have established a reputation for producing high-quality seafood products, including sauteed krill, bottled fish products, and assorted dried fish sold in local markets to nearby provinces.
Edward Yasay, BFAR-10 regional director, said the provision of post-harvest equipment is part of the bureau’s mandate to promote gender equality in the fisheries sector.
“We recognize women’s important role in the industry, particularly in post-harvest activities,” he said. “We hope to empower them to become more productive and profitable by providing them with the necessary tools and training.”
The handover of post-harvest equipment is part of the BFAR-10’s efforts to promote sustainable and inclusive fisheries in Northern Mindanao.
With its focus on supporting small-scale fishers and women’s groups, the agency aims to create a more equitable and resilient industry that can provide food and livelihoods for future generations. (CLV | BFAR-10)
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