By Kenneth Marcos 
The early morning sun shone over Barangay Igdarapdap in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, as local fisherfolk gathered to witness a milestone event that promises to change their livelihoods. On January 21, 2026, the first Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the six-year “Capacity Building on Aquaculture Development for Income Increase of Fisherfolk in Guimaras Province” took place, followed by the groundbreaking and soft launch of the project site.
The PSC, led by Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary Jerome V. Oliveros and co-chaired by DA Undersecretary Drusila Esther E. Bayate, brought together national and local officials to guide the project’s implementation, monitor progress, and ensure alignment with policies. Among those present were DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) National Director Elizer Salilig, DA-BFAR Region 6 Director Remia Aparri, DA Project Development Service official Marie Flor Aquino, DA Field Operations Service Director Lorna Belinda L. Calda, and KOICA Country Director Jung Youngsun. Governor Ma. Lucille Nava of Guimaras also joined, showing full local support.
“This project is a big step in improving the lives of our fisherfolk in Guimaras and across Region 6,” Usec. Oliveros said. “Ultimately, it also contributes to national food security.”
During the meeting, PSC members reviewed project updates, including capacity-building programs that have already benefited 282 fisherfolk. These programs covered modern aquaculture techniques, cooperative operations, and advanced hatchery management, equipping local fishers with the skills needed for sustainable and profitable operations. The meeting also tackled policy concerns, coordination strategies, and long-term directions to ensure smooth implementation.
KOICA Country Director Jung Youngsun emphasized the importance of collaboration. “Shared responsibility among stakeholders will ensure that the project achieves its goals and contributes to rural development in Guimaras,” she said.
Following the meeting, officials conducted a ceremonial groundbreaking for the 1,706-square-meter project site. Current works, including embankment construction, are 27% complete, preparing the area for hatcheries, pilot ponds, training centers, dormitories, and post-harvest facilities. These infrastructures aim to modernize aquaculture production and increase fisherfolk income sustainably.
“The fishing industry in Guimaras is vibrant, and this project responds directly to the needs of our fisherfolk,” Usec. Bayate said, affirming DA’s commitment to the initiative. Governor Nava pledged to fast-track land preparation, ensuring that construction and facility development proceed on schedule.
Funded by a USD 10-million (~Php 500 million) KOICA grant with Philippine government support, the project runs from 2022 to 2028. Its five main components are: constructing aquaculture infrastructure, providing modern aquaculture and laboratory equipment, offering training programs for fisherfolk and government staff, supporting cooperative-based business operations, and providing technical assistance to operate and demonstrate sustainable aquaculture models.
The initiative is expected to boost fish production, raise incomes, and promote sustainable practices while encouraging gender equality and community participation. For Guimaras fisherfolk, the project offers not only modern tools but also hope for a more secure and prosperous future.
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