In a bid to bolster water sustainability and address food insufficiency amidst the threat of El Niño, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI  and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region XI joined forces to execute Project LAWA at BINHI (Local Adaptation to Water Access and Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished) in 2024. This collaboration falls under the Risk Resiliency Program-Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation-Disaster Risk Resiliency (RRP-CCAM DRR) utilizing cash-for-training and work modality.

During a recent partnership meeting, key stakeholders convened to lay the groundwork for Project LAWA and BINHI’s successful implementation. Spearheading the discussion was Karen C. Gayonan, the Project focal, who elucidated the project’s objectives and strategies. 

The session aimed to secure vital technical support, advisory services, and fingerling procurement crucial for aquaculture initiatives. Notable attendees included Christie Mae B. Ranque, overseeing the Project Monitoring & Evaluation Unit (PMEU), and Sharon M. Baidiango, heading the Fisheries Production & Support Services (FPSSD), among other BFAR representatives, led by Regional Director Relly B. Garcia.

A pivotal outcome of the meeting was BFAR’s commitment to provide 135,000 fingerlings valued at PHP135,000.00. These fingerlings will be distributed among 90 small farm reservoirs (SFRs), with each reservoir receiving 1500 fingerlings. Furthermore, BFAR has pledged to conduct post-monitoring assessments to ensure the project’s sustainability. Additionally, provisions have been made for supplying breeder fish if deemed necessary. 

Looking ahead, a Memorandum of Agreement is slated to be drafted between DSWD and BFAR, subject to thorough review and approval processes. Once finalized, Project LAWA and BINHI will be rolled out across various municipalities in the Davao Region. 

To support the project’s initial phase, an allocation of P 39,967,660.00 has been earmarked for Cash for Training and Work initiatives in the first semester. Beneficiaries include farmer associations, beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), and recipients identified by the Listahanan 3 of the National Household Targeting Office (NHTO).

This collaborative effort marks a significant stride towards sustainable aquaculture development and food security in the midst of El Niño, promising a secured source of livelihood and economic stability for the beneficiaries in the wake of disasters and calamities. (DSWD FO XI/RSD)

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