By Kenneth Marcos 
In many coastal towns across the Philippines, fishing is not just a livelihood — it’s a way of life. Now, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is turning everyday fish knowledge into a chance to win cash.
BFAR has launched an exciting online contest as part of its ongoing FISHCON 2025 and MANAMo 2025 campaign, calling on Filipinos to identify a mystery fish species based on a set of clues. Participants have until September 26 to submit their answers and get a chance to win a cash prize.
Can You Name This Colorful Fish?
The fish in question has a long, slender body with a slanted mouth and a distinctly forked tail. Its upper body is bright blue, with a noticeable yellow stripe running along its side. Its fins are pale yellow or white, turning pinkish-red when it dies, and the tip of its tail shows a black mark.
According to the clue, this species can grow up to 21 centimeters long.
BFAR encourages the public to take part by commenting their answer on the official contest post by the deadline. Correct entries will be entered into a raffle draw for a chance to win cash rewards. The agency hopes the contest will spark interest in local marine species, especially among youth and small fishing communities.
Promoting Awareness and Conservation
The contest is part of BFAR’s broader effort to promote awareness of marine biodiversity, sustainable fishing practices, and the importance of protecting aquatic ecosystems. Through FISHCON and MANAMo (Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan at Pamayanan), the agency aims to strengthen community-based fisheries and empower local fisherfolk.
The Philippines is home to over 2,400 marine fish species, many of which are under threat due to overfishing, climate change, and pollution. Educating the public about these species is a vital step in ensuring their survival and the long-term sustainability of the country’s marine resources.
How to Join
To join the contest:
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Visit the official Facebook page of BFAR.
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Look for the post containing the fish clue under the hashtags #fishcon2025, #MANAMo2025, and #PangisdaanSaBagongPilipinas.
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Comment your guess on the post on or before September 26.
Winners will be notified by BFAR through official channels. Participants are reminded to follow only verified government pages to avoid scams or fake giveaways.
BFAR hopes this simple yet educational activity will help deepen appreciation for the country’s rich aquatic life while giving back to the communities that rely on them.
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