South Cotabato, Philippines | February 11, 2026 — Under the leadership of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., the Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to strengthen its support for local fisherfolk through various inland aquaculture initiatives aimed at improving fish production and sustaining livelihood opportunities across the province.
The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) – Fishery Section distributed 4,500 tilapia fingerlings and 1,500 hito (catfish) fingerlings to the Barangay Local Government Unit of San Jose, Norala recently.
The distribution was conducted at the Provincial Nursery and Demonstration Farm (PNDF) in Banga and was facilitated by
According to Provincial Fishery Coordinator Ms. Shiny Rose T. Janiel, “The distribution activity forms part of the province’s ongoing program to enhance fishery productivity and provide additional income opportunities for fisherfolk through aquaculture development. The fingerlings are expected to help increase fish production while promoting food security within local communities.”, she said.
On the same day, the OPAg Fishery Section also initiated a procurement agreement with Primne’s Aqua Venture in Banga for 175 kilograms of male hito breeders.
These breeders will be utilized for induced breeding operations to produce additional hito fingerlings that will support future dispersal and distribution programs of the provincial government.
Meanwhile, a coordination meeting was conducted with fisherfolk and fishery operators in Barangay Polonuling, Tupi.
The meeting focused on assisting fisheries stakeholders in preparing and validating documentary requirements for registration under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
The initiative aims to strengthen organization, compliance, and institutional development among fisherfolk groups, enabling them to access more government programs and livelihood support services.
The Provincial Government emphasized that these efforts are part of its continuing commitment to promote sustainable fisheries management while improving the economic condition of local fisherfolk.
Through strengthened collaboration, technical assistance, and resource support, South Cotabato aims to further expand its aquaculture sector and ensure long-term productivity within the industry.
Fisherfolk organizations and local government units interested in availing of tilapia and hito fingerlings are encouraged to submit a Letter of Intent addressed to the Office of the Governor and the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist.
Coordination may be made through the OPAg Fishery Section to facilitate requests and program assistance.
