Japan vows continued support for BARMM’s fishery sector

MANILA, Philippines — The Japanese government has vowed to continue supporting the fishery sector in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, in collaboration with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the BARMM’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR).

The Japanese embassy said the FAO and MAFAR would implement projects that enhance livelihood, strengthen resilience and ensure food security in the region through sustainable aquaculture and fishery.

The Bangsamoro region received a $4.79-million grant from Japan to further develop its aquaculture and fishery industry.

The region is among the top suppliers of fish and marine products, accounting for 30 percent of the country’s total fish production.

High post-harvest losses, declining production, underutilized waters and high poverty incidence have been threatening BARMM’s fish production.

To address these issues, the FAO will provide technical support, training and capacity building as well as build necessary infrastructure to empower fishing communities in the region.

The Japanese embassy said the MAFAR and local government units would be trained to improve monitoring and management of fish stocks.

Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya stressed the importance of collaboration with FAO in making the BARMM program successful.

FAO country representative Lionel Dabbadie said the program builds on the success of FAO’s previous projects, which were also supported by the Japanese government.