By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the bright morning sun of August 13, 2025, 171 backyard fishpond farmers gathered at the covered courts of Barangays Buyuan and Banquerohan in Legazpi City, hopeful as they received tilapia fingerlings for their ponds. Amid the excitement, officials reminded them of a crucial step to protect their livelihoods: fisheries insurance.
Tyrone Malate, Insurance Underwriter from PCIC Regional Office 5, emphasized that fisheries insurance helps farmers recover financially from losses caused by natural disasters, such as typhoons, floods, and diseases affecting their stocks. “Securing insurance is not just about protecting fish; it is about safeguarding the hard work and income of every small-scale aquaculture farmer,” he said.
The tilapia fingerlings distribution was organized by the Legazpi City Agriculture Office in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Office 5 and the Albay Provincial Fisheries Office. Officials explained that combining support programs like fingerlings distribution with insurance can help farmers maintain steady production and reduce the financial impact of unexpected calamities.
Backyard aquaculture is a growing livelihood in Legazpi, providing both food and income for local families. However, farmers often face risks from unpredictable weather and water-borne diseases. By availing of fisheries insurance, they can ensure that losses do not completely wipe out their earnings, giving them a safety net to rebuild and continue their work.
The PCIC program encourages farmers to register their fishponds and learn about the coverage options available. Insurance policies typically cover damages from natural calamities, fish mortality, and other risks beyond the farmer’s control. Officials stressed that early enrollment is key, as coverage can start as soon as fish stocks are insured.
For many of the farmers at the event, the combination of receiving fingerlings and learning about insurance offered both hope and a sense of security. “We work hard every day to feed our families. Knowing that there is a way to protect our ponds gives us peace of mind,” said one participant.
As the day concluded, organizers urged all backyard fishpond operators in Legazpi City to consider fisheries insurance as a vital investment in their future. Small steps like this can help ensure that even in the face of storms or other setbacks, local aquaculture can continue to thrive and support the community.
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