The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Bicol has started distributing technology demonstration project packages to four local government units (LGUs) in Bicol.

In an interview on Friday, Rowena Briones, BFAR spokesperson, said four LGUs already received the packages early this week — Ligao City, Tabaco City and Malinao town, all in Albay, and Sorsogon City.

The four initial recipients each received a technology demonstration package amounting to PHP128,650 which includes 10,000 pieces of tilapia fingerlings, feeds and other materials such as crates, weighing scale, “banyera” and plastic crates.

“This comprehensive package ensures that the fisherfolk beneficiaries have the initial resources they need to effectively raise and harvest tilapia,” she said.

Briones said a total of 20 demo projects for tilapia culture in ponds will be established in the region as part of the agency’s initiative to boost fisheries production and promote tilapia as a key commodity for grow-out culture in ponds.

“By next week, stocking na din sa sites in Sorsogon. Then, ma-schedule ulit sa other beneficiaries sa iba pang provinces (By next week, stocking will also be done at the sites in Sorsogon. Then, there will be schedules again with other beneficiaries in other provinces),” she said.

The project, she added, also aims to create additional livelihood opportunities for local communities and contribute to the region’s economic growth and food security. (PNA)