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The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) building in Barangay Tanza, Iloilo City (Photo by Pearl G. Lena)
MANILA – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has launched the National Search for Outstanding Coastal and Inland Communities under the “Malinis at Masaganang Katubigan” (MMK 2.0) program.
In a statement on Wednesday, BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig said local government units (LGUs) and communities play a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s aquatic environment.
“Bawat Pilipino ay mahalaga ang papel sa pangangalaga ng ating katubigan, higit na mahalaga ang obligasyon at mandato ng ating mga lokal na pamahalaan bilang pangunahing katuwang sa pagpapatupad ng mga programa at polisiya para sa pangangalaga ng ating mga likas-yaman (The role of each Filipino is important in taking care of our waters, but the obligation and mandate of our LGUs are even more important as primary partners in implementing programs and policies to safeguard our natural resources),” he said.
Under the expanded program, the national search now includes inland fisheries and freshwater resources.
The initiative promotes an integrated, ecosystem-based, and climate-resilient approach to aquatic resource management. It also seeks to strengthen efforts against climate change and environmental degradation while addressing the increasing demands on the country’s water resources.
Salilig urged LGUs nationwide to participate and showcase their best practices.
“Hinihikayat natin ang bawat LGU na aktibong makilahok, ibahagi ang kanilang best practices, at ipakita ang kanilang mga inobasyon at tagumpay upang magsilbing inspirasyon sa iba pang komunidad (We encourage every LGU to actively participate, share their best practices, and showcase their innovations and achievements to inspire other communities),” he said.
Winning LGUs will receive national recognition plaques and substantial financial grants to support fisheries and environmental initiatives.
National champions will receive PHP5 million, while special awards will recognize outstanding performance in specific areas of fisheries and aquatic resource management.
The MMK 2.0 program follows a three-year implementation cycle aimed at sustaining engagement and strengthening the capacities of LGUs.
The first year will focus on information, education, and communication (IEC) campaigns and capacity-building activities.
The second year will feature the search for outstanding coastal fisheries municipalities and cities, while the third year will focus on inland fisheries municipalities and cities.
The initiative was formally launched in Barangay Olo-olo, Lobo, Batangas, on May 28.
— Joyce Ann L. Rocamora (PNA)
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Credit belongs to: www.pna.gov.ph
