The municipality of Manticao in Misamis Oriental has received PHP1.2 million in support from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Northern Mindanao (BFAR-10) for its bangus (milkfish) production.

In a statement Tuesday, Villa Flora Rosos, BFAR-10 focal person, said the amount is part of the National Bangus Development Program (NBDP). The financial support has been disbursed in tranches since June this year.

“The intervention aims to strengthen the milkfish industry in Manticao, create sustainable livelihood opportunities for coastal residents,” she said.

Rosos added the NBDP helps Manticao fisherfolk contribute to local food security, particularly in areas where aquaculture resources remain underutilized.

Meanwhile, BFAR-10 has also completed the seaweeds farming technology training, which included fisherfolk in Barangay Barra, Tudela town, Misamis Occidental.

Marcial Belano, one of the participants, said the training opened opportunities for additional livelihood.

“During periods of fishing bans or when strong waves prevent us from fishing, growing seaweeds can become our primary source of income,” Belano said. (PNA)