Submitted by admin-r4b on
Marinduque - In a decisive move to strengthen sustainable agriculture and uplift local communities, the NIA Marinduque Provincial Irrigation Office (Marinduque PIO), led by Officer-in-Charge Engr. Daniel Angelo M. Malabanan, in close coordination with the NIA Mindoro Oriental-Marinduque-Romblon (MOMARO) Irrigation Management Office (IMO), under the leadership of Division Manager Engr. Gerardo R. Perez and, with the invaluable support of the NIA MIMAROPA Regional Office Acting Regional Manager Ronilio M. Cervantes, collaborated with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Marinduque Provincial Fisheries Office (PFO), directed by Officer-in-Charge Mr. Joel G. Malabanan. Together, they orchestrated a highly impactful convergence programme on December 7, 2023. The heart of this initiative was the strategic distribution of 90,000 Tilapia fingerlings among carefully identified beneficiaries, marking a significant moment in fostering self-reliance and food security.
President Samuel Rondera of the Silangan State Cruz Irrigator's Association obtained 60,000 tilapia fingerlings, while President Angelito Nabing of Magsipag IA received 14,000 tilapia fingerlings. Additionally, President Ronjon Apostol of Tumagabok, IA, was given 16,000 fingerlings.
The Silangan Sta. Cruz IA placed the tilapia fingerlings directly in their own dam, while Magsipag IA distributed them among two farmers as beneficiaries. On the other hand, Tumagabok IA allocated the fingerlings to 25 farmers as beneficiaries.
The collaboration between NIA and BFAR showcased the potential of synergy between government agencies in effecting positive change. It underscored the significance of a unified approach to address the multifaceted challenges faced by rural communities, blending irrigation expertise with aquaculture proficiency for holistic development.
Witnessing the enthusiasm and determination among the beneficiaries was a testament to the impact of such initiatives. Their stories echoed resilience and hope, encapsulating the transformative potential of these fingerlings in enhancing livelihoods and fostering economic stability within communities.
Moving forward, the program's success will be measured not merely by the event but by its lasting impact. Continuous support, monitoring, and guidance from NIA and BFAR will ensure that these fingerlings become enduring sources of sustenance and prosperity for the communities they now call home.