KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato, through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) continues to intensify its inland aquaculture initiatives with a series of validation, monitoring, and coordination activities across key communities.
Field validation and monitoring were conducted in Barangay Saravia, City of Koronadal to assess areas of fisherfolk requesting technical assistance and access to inland fishery development interventions.
The activity ensures that support programs remain responsive to the actual needs and conditions of local fishing communities.
Melchi G. Uysan, Chairperson of the Kapit-Bisig Fisher and Farmer Folks Association, underscored the impact of these initiatives, describing the provincial government as proactive in reaching out to farmers and fisherfolk.
“Grabe ka pro-active. Biskan wala kami nagapalapit, ginapangita gid kami. Kay ang mga farmers, kis-a nubo ang pagtan-aw sa ila kaugalingon. Pero tungod sa mga programa kag proyekto nga ginapatuman, nakita gid namon ang bulig. Kami ang nagahindi, pero sila naga-pursige gid. Nalipay gid kami,” she shared.
She added that the programs implemented in the province directly address the basic needs of communities while ensuring that all sectors are actively involved in development.
Monitoring was also carried out at a private hatchery in Barangay Polonuling, Tupi to verify fingerlings production data in coordination with the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist (OMAg) of Tupi.
This process supports accurate reporting and helps maintain quality standards in fishery production.
Meanwhile, organized fisherfolk in Barangay Polonuling – Kapit-Bisig Fisher and Farmer Folks Association – were assisted in completing documentary requirements for submission to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for the formal registration of their association—strengthening their access to government programs and institutional support.
These efforts highlight the province’s ongoing commitment to advancing inland fisheries development, improving productivity, and empowering fisherfolk through sustained technical and organizational support.
Under the leadership of Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., the provincial government continues to ensure that development remains balanced across all sectors, with no community left behind.
