The Government of Japan has reaffirmed its commitment to the local agriculture sector by funding a $4.79 million fisheries project in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR), will implement the project titled “Development of Sustainable Fishery Value Chains in BARMM.”
This initiative aims to strengthen livelihoods, improve food security, and enhance the resilience of the region’s aquaculture and fisheries sector through sustainable practices.
Once a conflict-stricken region, BARMM is now a leading contributor to the country’s fisheries industry, supplying around 30% of the Philippines’ total fish production.
Despite its success, the sector continues to face challenges such as post-harvest losses, declining yields, underutilized waters, and high poverty rates among fishing communities.
The project is part of FAO’s Blue Transformation Roadmap, which seeks to meet the rising demand for aquatic food while reducing environmental impact.
It will provide technical support, training, and capacity-building for local fishers while introducing innovative aquaculture and post-harvest technologies to minimize losses.
Additionally, the project will focus on developing market linkages and value chains, as well as strengthening the monitoring and management of fish stocks by MAFAR and local government units.
Alternative livelihood programs, including fish processing and entrepreneurship training, will also be introduced to empower small-scale fishers, including women and former rebel combatants from designated project sites.
Japanese Ambassador ENDO Kazuya emphasized Japan’s dedication to promoting peace and development in BARMM, highlighting that empowering local communities is key to long-term stability and economic growth.
He expressed confidence that Japan’s collaboration with FAO and other stakeholders would ensure the project’s success and contribute to the sustainability of the region’s fisheries sector.
MAFAR Minister Mohammad Yacob welcomed the initiative, recognizing its potential to uplift 4,000 small-scale aquafarmers and fishers while strengthening food security in the region.
FAO Representative in the Philippines Lionel Dabbadie also noted that the project builds on Japan’s longstanding support for agricultural development in the country, including previous initiatives in disaster recovery and peace-building efforts.