By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the early morning sun in Quezon City, farmers, fisherfolk, and government workers gathered to celebrate one common goal: making sure every Filipino has access to safe and healthy food. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) joined this year’s World Food Day 2025 celebration with the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future.”
The event brought together different government agencies, local leaders, and representatives from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN-FAO). Their message was clear—stronger cooperation is needed to build a more sustainable food system, especially for those who depend on the country’s seas, rivers, and lakes for their livelihood.
Commitment to a Stronger Fisheries Sector
During the event, BFAR reaffirmed its commitment to support the country’s fishing communities by improving local food production while protecting marine resources.
“Our goal is to make the fisheries sector more productive and sustainable,” said BFAR in a statement. “We want to ensure that our fisherfolk have stable incomes while also preserving the environment for future generations.”
BFAR also highlighted its ongoing programs aligned with the government’s Bagong Pilipinas campaign, which focuses on innovation, unity, and inclusive development. Among these programs are initiatives to provide fishing equipment, promote aquaculture, train fisherfolk, and enforce fishing regulations to stop illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Why World Food Day Matters
World Food Day is celebrated every October 16 to raise awareness about hunger, malnutrition, and the importance of global food security. This year’s theme reminds us that no single group or sector can do it alone—collaboration between government, private groups, and local communities is key to feeding the nation.
In the Philippines, about 12 million Filipinos rely on agriculture and fisheries for their income. But climate change, overfishing, and limited market access continue to affect their productivity. This is why events like World Food Day are important—not just to celebrate food, but to push for real action and support for our farmers and fisherfolk.
Moving Forward Together
With the country’s population expected to reach over 115 million by the end of the year, the need for safe, accessible, and affordable food becomes more urgent. BFAR’s efforts, together with other sectors, aim to build a resilient food system that can withstand future challenges like typhoons, global price shocks, and environmental decline.
As the celebration wrapped up, participants were reminded that food security starts with strong communities, responsible resource management, and the support of every Filipino.
“Masaganang pangisdaan, masaganang kinabukasan,” one participant shared—a simple message that reflects the hope of many who live off the sea.
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