Seaweed farming project launched to boost fisherfolk livelihoods

By Rowena T. Cruz Members of the Samahan ng Matatag na Mangingisda prepare seaweed lines during the launch of the “Seaweeds Para sa Kinabuka...

By Rowena T. Cruz

Members of the Samahan ng Matatag na Mangingisda prepare seaweed lines during the launch of the “Seaweeds Para sa Kinabukasan” project in Barangay Sagongon, Mulanay, Quezon. (Mulanay, Quezon Public Information)

MULANAY, Quezon — A community-based seaweed planting activity was conducted recently in Barangay Sagongon, Mulanay, Quezon, as part of a local livelihood program for coastal residents. The initiative forms part of a broader effort to promote seaweed farming as a long-term and stable source of income for fisherfolk in the municipality.

Seaweed farming is being advanced in Barangay Sagongon as a strategy to strengthen livelihood security and reduce heavy dependence on traditional fishing. The program provides an alternative source of income while supporting the protection and proper management of marine resources.



The program, titled “Seaweeds Para sa Kinabukasan” (Seaweeds for the Future), was led by the Samahan ng Matatag na Mangingisda ng Barangay Sagongon through a project provided by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). It was carried out in partnership with the Municipal Agriculture Office of Mulanay to strengthen community-based livelihood initiatives.

The project aims to give fisherfolk a steady and more reliable source of income, especially during periods of low fish catch and changing weather conditions. It is expected to help stabilize earnings and improve financial security for families who rely on coastal resources.

Seaweed farming is considered a low-impact method of aquaculture that can increase coastal productivity without harming the environment. Growing seaweeds in selected marine areas allows fisherfolk to increase earnings while helping protect coastal waters and maintain a stable supply of marine products in the community.

Members of the association joined the preparation and actual planting of seaweed seedlings in identified coastal areas of the barangay. Training sessions and technical guidance were provided to ensure proper cultivation, maintain product quality, and support sustainable production practices.

Association leaders expressed their gratitude to BFAR and the Municipal Government of Mulanay for their continued support for local fisherfolk. They also acknowledged the leadership of Mayor Aristotle L. Aguirre and Vice Mayor Jay E. Castilleja for supporting programs that aim to improve the lives of coastal families.

Through continued cooperation between national agencies and the local government, the seaweed project is expected to provide added income for fisherfolk families. It is also expected to bring long-term economic and environmental benefits to the coastal community of Barangay Sagongon.