Davao City – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI turned over a tilapia production project to the 30 members of the Brgy. Biao Joaquin SLP Association on July 17, 2023.

A total amount of PHP 450,000 seed capital fund was provided by the Department while other government agencies pitched in their resources as well. These include 7,500 fingerlings collectively provided by the City Agriculturist Office (City-Agri) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and free insurance for the project through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC).

The BFAR, led by Regional Director Raul Millana, committed to consistently provide capability building and technical support to the members of the livelihood association. Additionally, the City-Agri, represented by Acting Assistant City Agriculturist and Chief of Seed Bank and Research Division Ramon M. Lingatong, also expressed support to the project’s development and interest in exploring diversified farming opportunities for the association in the future.

“The convergence approach among agencies made this project possible, and its quick implementation was appreciated by our program participants and concerned community,” said Luis Seras, SLP Deputy City Cluster Coordinator and implementing project development officer. “The project is envisioned to generate substantial income and create valuable employment opportunities to the community, with the ultimate goal to elevate the standard of living for all association members.”

Present during the ceremony were Vice-Mayor Atty. Melchor L. Quitain, Councilors Hon. Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz and Alberto Ungab, City Social Welfare and Development Office Head Julie P. Dayaday, Police Captain Napoleon Sabes of the PNP Calinan District, Lt. Eddie Ray Navales of the 27th Infantry Brigade, PCIC Manager Rey Lagdameo, and Brgy. Captain Grecie Canedo.

For the Department, Promotive Services Division Chief Elizabeth T. Degorio and SLP Davao City Cluster Coordinator Julius R. Duterte were also present.

The project stands as a testament to the transformative impact that collaborative efforts can achieve. With crucial resources and support from various government agencies, livelihood association members are poised to thrive, contributing to the overall growth and prosperity of the local economy. ###