MAFAR CONDUCTS TRAINING ON THE CONSERVATION, MANAGEMENT OF INDIGENOUS FISH SPECIES

SOUTH COTABATO – The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform, through the Inland Resource Management Section, conducted an orientation training focused on the conservation and management of indigenous/endemic fish species and the Effect of Invasive Species held on October 17-19, 2023 at Punta Isla Lake Resort in Lake Sebu

A total of 30 participants attended the training, including staff from MAFAR Regional and Provincial Offices and representatives from the Provincial Government of Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and the Province of Lanao del Sur.

 The primary objective of this orientation was to raise awareness and provide essential information to those involved in the management and conservation of indigenous and endemic fish species in inland waters.

In his message, Director II of Fisheries Services, Macmod D. Mamalangkap, Ph.D., emphasized the pivotal role of all stakeholders, including Local Government Units (LGUs), Fisherfolk, and MAFAR Provincial Offices, in protecting the valuable aquatic resources of the Bangsamoro region.

Director Mamalangkap stressed that such collective efforts would benefit the fisherfolk and the entire community and contribute significantly to the conservation of resources while preventing the influx of invasive species, which can cause considerable harm to indigenous and endemic fish species in inland waters.

Hairodin T. Arap, Chief of the Fisheries Resource Management Division (FRMD), then delivered a presentation on the importance of conserving and managing indigenous and endemic fish species in freshwater environments.

Chief Arap discussed the current status of freshwater fish species in the country, highlighted the reasons for their decline, and outlined their threats. He also presented fundamental approaches to conservation and management efforts, shedding light on various Philippine Government programs designed to safeguard freshwater species.

In addition to conserving indigenous and endemic species, the orientation delved into the critical issue of invasive fish species. Tunggal Kasan, Aquaculturist II of the Inland Section, expounded on the impact of invasive species in freshwater ecosystems. He revealed that invasive species such as janitor fish and knifefish significantly threaten rivers, streams, lakes, marshes, and other water bodies.

Participants expressed their gratitude to MAFAR-BARMM for organizing the orientation, recognizing its significance as a cornerstone in advocating for community awareness regarding the conservation and management of inland resources.

The orientation served as a crucial step in the ongoing efforts to safeguard the Bangsamoro region’s unique and valuable aquatic ecosystems. By raising awareness and equipping stakeholders with knowledge and strategies, MAFAR-BARMM aims to ensure these vital resources’ continued health and sustainability for the benefit of communities and ecosystems.