BFAR SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula

17/08/2026

𝗕𝗙𝗔𝗥-𝗦𝗔𝗔𝗗 𝗭𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗘𝗡 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗼𝘀𝘁-𝗛𝗮𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀

ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, August 14, 2026 - # # # The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Zamboanga Peninsula Region through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Phase II Program, turned over Post-Harvest Shared Station Facilities, equipment, and utensils to the Mutia Farfish Association (MFA) in Barangay San Miguel, Mutia, and the Mauswagon Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (MFFA) in Barangay Mauswagon, La Libertad, Zamboanga del Norte.

The turnover, marked by a ceremonial signing, was conducted in partnership with the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Mutia and La Libertad to strengthen the associations’ post-harvest fisheries operations and support their value-adding and livelihood activities.

The ceremony was attended by Mr. Arnel R. Valenzuela, National Alternate Focal Person for BFAR-SAAD; Mutia Mayor Lorrymir S. Adasa, and La Libertad Vice-Mayor Atty. Pete Zamora along with representatives from BFAR-SAAD ZAMPEN, the concerned LGUs, and the beneficiary associations.

The facilities and equipment will help MFA and MFFA improve the handling, processing, and management of fishery products, reduce post-harvest losses, and add value to their products. The intervention is also expected to improve the associations’ productivity and create more opportunities for income generation.

BFAR-SAAD ZAMPEN also aims to help the two associations develop their operations into sustainable Community-Based Enterprises (CBEs), providing their members with better livelihood opportunities and potential sources of long-term income.

During the turnover, the beneficiary associations were reminded to properly manage, maintain, and utilize the facilities and equipment to ensure their continued operation and long-term benefit to their members.

Written by:
Jess Mark H. Dagodog
Project Assistant, PPMSO-ZDN

Photo Credit: SAAD RPMSO

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD Kaagapay sa Maunlad na Buhay.



About DA-BFAR SAAD Phase 2:
The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-BFAR SAAD) Program Phase 2 aims to contribute to poverty reduction and improve the living conditions of vulnerable fisherfolk and their communities by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and support for poor fishing sectors. These interventions intend to complement the DA banner programs and assist beneficiaries in establishing community-based fishery enterprises. The BFAR-SAAD strives to enhance food security and promote economic growth in targeted areas across the Philippines.

17/08/2026

𝗕𝗙𝗔𝗥-𝗦𝗔𝗔𝗗 𝗭𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗘𝗡 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗼𝘀𝘁-𝗛𝗮𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀

ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, August 14, 2026 - # # # The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Zamboanga Peninsula Region through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Phase II Program, turned over Post-Harvest Shared Station Facilities, equipment, and utensils to the Mutia Farfish Association (MFA) in Barangay San Miguel, Mutia, and the Mauswagon Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (MFFA) in Barangay Mauswagon, La Libertad, Zamboanga del Norte.

The turnover, marked by a ceremonial signing, was conducted in partnership with the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Mutia and La Libertad to strengthen the associations’ post-harvest fisheries operations and support their value-adding and livelihood activities.

The ceremony was attended by Mr. Arnel R. Valenzuela, National Alternate Focal Person for BFAR-SAAD; Mutia Mayor Lorrymir S. Adasa, and La Libertad Vice-Mayor Atty. Pete Zamora along with representatives from BFAR-SAAD ZAMPEN, the concerned LGUs, and the beneficiary associations.

The facilities and equipment will help MFA and MFFA improve the handling, processing, and management of fishery products, reduce post-harvest losses, and add value to their products. The intervention is also expected to improve the associations’ productivity and create more opportunities for income generation.

BFAR-SAAD ZAMPEN also aims to help the two associations develop their operations into sustainable Community-Based Enterprises (CBEs), providing their members with better livelihood opportunities and potential sources of long-term income.

During the turnover, the beneficiary associations were reminded to properly manage, maintain, and utilize the facilities and equipment to ensure their continued operation and long-term benefit to their members.

Written by:
Jess Mark H. Dagodog
Project Assistant, PPMSO-ZDN

Photo Credit: SAAD RPMSO

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD Kaagapay sa Maunlad na Buhay.



About DA-BFAR SAAD Phase 2:
The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-BFAR SAAD) Program Phase 2 aims to contribute to poverty reduction and improve the living conditions of vulnerable fisherfolk and their communities by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and support for poor fishing sectors. These interventions intend to complement the DA banner programs and assist beneficiaries in establishing community-based fishery enterprises. The BFAR-SAAD strives to enhance food security and promote economic growth in targeted areas across the Philippines.

05/08/2026

Congratulations BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program 👏👏👏

𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐁𝐅𝐀𝐑-𝐒𝐀𝐀𝐃!

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Special Area for Agricultural Development (BFAR-SAAD) Program Phase II has been recognized as one of the top-performing locally funded projects by the Department of Agriculture - Special Projects Coordination and Management Assistance Division (DA-SPCMAD). For the first semester of CY 2026, the Program earned an impressive 97.56% performance rating under the Special Projects Monitoring and Evaluation Tool (SPMET), officially awarded during the Midyear Assessment held in Diliman, Quezon City last July 31, 2026.

This recognition reflects the teamwork and shared commitment of the Program's implementers, who continue to work hand in hand to keep the program moving forward. With this achievement as added inspiration, the team remains committed to excellence in implementation and firm in its mission: to help reduce poverty by advancing fisheries development initiatives that bring lasting, meaningful change to coastal and fisherfolk communities.

Mabuhay ang sektor ng Pangisdaan!

03/08/2026

𝗝𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗸 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴

JOSEFINA, Zamboanga del Sur , July 30–31, 2026 # The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office IX (DA-BFAR IX), through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II Regional Program Management Support Office (RPMSO), conducted a two-day Training on Cooperative Development: Building Strong and Sustainable Fisherfolk Organizations for members of the Josefina Fisherfolk Association in Josefina, Zamboanga del Sur.

Conducted under the Social Preparation component of the SAAD Program Phase II, the training aimed to strengthen the association's leadership, organizational management, and governance while preparing its members to sustain future livelihood opportunities.
In his opening message, Jonathan A. Conejos, Municipal Agricultural Officer of Josefina, encouraged the participants to actively engage in the discussions and apply the knowledge they would gain to strengthen their organization.

Meanwhile, Merly Quidet-Pao, Chief of the Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division (RFTFCD) of BFAR IX, emphasized the importance of continuous learning in building resilient and self-reliant fisherfolk organizations capable of sustaining the interventions provided through the SAAD Program.
Representing the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–Zamboanga del Sur, Ms. Reje Ann A. Pornia, Business Counselor of the DTI Negosyo Center in Josefina, and Ms. Iris Judith B. Guatno, Trade-Industry Development Specialist, served as resource speakers. They discussed Business Continuity Planning (BCP) and organizational effectiveness, guiding participants through lectures and workshops on improving organizational management and sustainability.

During the closing program, Raffy Adeltone N. Tan, Provincial Fisheries Officer of Zamboanga del Sur, encouraged the association to put their learnings into practice and continue working together to strengthen their organization.

Writer: Jeric B. Cabus, Area Coordinator, PPMSO–ZDS
Photo/Video Credits: Margie T. Fuentes, Area Coordinator, PPMSO–ZDS, and RFTFCD Staff

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD Kaagapay sa Maunlad na Buhay.

03/08/2026

DA-BFAR IX Conducts Cooperative Development Training for Sominot Fisherfolk

Zamboanga del Sur (July 28–29, 2026) – The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office IX (DA-BFAR IX), through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II, conducted a two-day Training on Cooperative Development: Building Strong and Sustainable Fisherfolk Organizations on July 28–29, 2026, in Sominot, Zamboanga del Sur.

The activity brought together members of the Sominot Upland Backyard Fish Farmers Association (SUBFFA), one of the SAAD Program Phase II beneficiary organizations in the province. The training aimed to strengthen the association's organizational capacity by equipping members with practical knowledge and skills in cooperative development, leadership, and effective organizational management. Representing the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–Zamboanga del Sur, Ms. Lovely Rose O. Basilisco, Business Counselor of the DTI Negosyo Center in Sominot, and Ms. Iris Judith B. Guatno, Trade-Industry Development Specialist, served as resource speakers.

They discussed organizational development and cooperative management, emphasizing the importance of good leadership, shared responsibility, sound governance, and active member participation in building a strong and sustainable fisherfolk organization. The resource speakers highlighted the importance of establishing clear organizational structures, developing internal policies, and fostering teamwork to help the association better respond to the needs of its members.

They also emphasized transparency, accountability, and collaboration as essential elements in creating a resilient organization capable of managing livelihood interventions and pursuing future enterprise opportunities. Through interactive workshops and group discussions, participants shared their experiences, identified common organizational challenges, and explored practical strategies to strengthen their association.
The sessions also reinforced cooperative principles that promote unity, shared ownership, and collective responsibility—key foundations for sustaining community-based organizations. Members actively participated throughout the two-day training, demonstrating their commitment to strengthening their organization and applying the knowledge gained in managing future initiatives.

They also expressed their appreciation to the DTI resource speakers for sharing practical insights that will help improve the association's operations and prepare them for future development opportunities. The training concluded with a renewed commitment from the members of the Sominot Upland Backyard Fish Farmers Association to apply what they learned in strengthening their organization, improving day-to-day operations, and working together toward achieving their shared goals.

Writer: Jeric B. Cabus, Area Coordinator, PPMSO–ZDS Photo/Video Credits: Margie T. Fuentes, Area Coordinator, PPMSO–ZDS, and RFTFCD Staff

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD Kaagapay sa Maunlad na Buhay.

03/08/2026

𝗝𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗸 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴

JOSEFINA, Zamboanga del Sur , July 30–31, 2026 # The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office IX (DA-BFAR IX), through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II Regional Program Management Support Office (RPMSO), conducted a two-day Training on Cooperative Development: Building Strong and Sustainable Fisherfolk Organizations for members of the Josefina Fisherfolk Association in Josefina, Zamboanga del Sur.

Conducted under the Social Preparation component of the SAAD Program Phase II, the training aimed to strengthen the association's leadership, organizational management, and governance while preparing its members to sustain future livelihood opportunities.

In his opening message, Jonathan A. Conejos, Municipal Agricultural Officer of Josefina, encouraged the participants to actively engage in the discussions and apply the knowledge they would gain to strengthen their organization.

Meanwhile, Merly Quidet-Pao, Chief of the Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division (RFTFCD) of BFAR IX, emphasized the importance of continuous learning in building resilient and self-reliant fisherfolk organizations capable of sustaining the interventions provided through the SAAD Program.

Representing the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–Zamboanga del Sur, Ms. Reje Ann A. Pornia, Business Counselor of the DTI Negosyo Center in Josefina, and Ms. Iris Judith B. Guatno, Trade-Industry Development Specialist, served as resource speakers. They discussed Business Continuity Planning (BCP) and organizational effectiveness, guiding participants through lectures and workshops on improving organizational management and sustainability.

During the closing program, Raffy Adeltone N. Tan, Provincial Fisheries Officer of Zamboanga del Sur, encouraged the association to put their learnings into practice and continue working together to strengthen their organization.

Writer: Jeric B. Cabus, Area Coordinator, PPMSO–ZDS

Photo/Video Credits: Margie T. Fuentes, Area Coordinator, PPMSO–ZDS, and RFTFCD Staff

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD Kaagapay sa Maunlad na Buhay.

03/08/2026

𝗗𝗔-𝗕𝗙𝗔𝗥 𝗜𝗫 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗸

Zamboanga del Sur (July 28–29, 2026) – The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office IX (DA-BFAR IX), through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II, conducted a two-day Training on Cooperative Development: Building Strong and Sustainable Fisherfolk Organizations on July 28–29, 2026, in Sominot, Zamboanga del Sur.

The activity brought together members of the Sominot Upland Backyard Fish Farmers Association (SUBFFA), one of the SAAD Program Phase II beneficiary organizations in the province. The training aimed to strengthen the association's organizational capacity by equipping members with practical knowledge and skills in cooperative development, leadership, and effective organizational management. Representing the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–Zamboanga del Sur, Ms. Lovely Rose O. Basilisco, Business Counselor of the DTI Negosyo Center in Sominot, and Ms. Iris Judith B. Guatno, Trade-Industry Development Specialist, served as resource speakers.

They discussed organizational development and cooperative management, emphasizing the importance of good leadership, shared responsibility, sound governance, and active member participation in building a strong and sustainable fisherfolk organization. The resource speakers highlighted the importance of establishing clear organizational structures, developing internal policies, and fostering teamwork to help the association better respond to the needs of its members.

They also emphasized transparency, accountability, and collaboration as essential elements in creating a resilient organization capable of managing livelihood interventions and pursuing future enterprise opportunities. Through interactive workshops and group discussions, participants shared their experiences, identified common organizational challenges, and explored practical strategies to strengthen their association.
The sessions also reinforced cooperative principles that promote unity, shared ownership, and collective responsibility—key foundations for sustaining community-based organizations. Members actively participated throughout the two-day training, demonstrating their commitment to strengthening their organization and applying the knowledge gained in managing future initiatives.

They also expressed their appreciation to the DTI resource speakers for sharing practical insights that will help improve the association's operations and prepare them for future development opportunities. The training concluded with a renewed commitment from the members of the Sominot Upland Backyard Fish Farmers Association to apply what they learned in strengthening their organization, improving day-to-day operations, and working together toward achieving their shared goals.

Writer: Jeric B. Cabus, Area Coordinator, PPMSO–ZDS Photo/Video Credits: Margie T. Fuentes, Area Coordinator, PPMSO–ZDS, and RFTFCD Staff

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD Kaagapay sa Maunlad na Buhay.

31/07/2026

📣 WE'RE HIRING!
Join the BFAR IX SAAD Phase II Team as an INFORMATION OFFICER I!

Do you have a passion for storytelling, photography, videography, graphic design, and digital communication? Are you eager to use your creativity and communication skills to make a meaningful impact in the lives of Filipino fisherfolk and farming communities?

The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Region IX, through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Phase II Program, is looking for a dedicated Information Officer I to help document inspiring success stories, promote government initiatives, and strengthen public awareness of programs that uplift marginalized communities.

✨ Position: Information Officer I
💰 Monthly Salary: Php 24,391.00
📌 Employment Status: Contract of Service (COS)

Minimum Qualifications:
✅ Bachelor's degree relevant to the position
✅ One (1) year relevant experience
✅ Eight (8) hours relevant training
✅ Eligibility is not required (Career Service Eligibility is an advantage)

If you are creative, passionate about communication, and ready to make a difference through public service, this opportunity is for you!

📩 Submit your application on or before August 7, 2026.

Address your application to:

AL-ZATH K. KUNTING, RFP, MPA
Regional Director
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Regional Fisheries Office IX
R. T. Lim Boulevard, Zamboanga City

Applications may be submitted personally or via email at [email protected].

📞 For inquiries, call (062) 991-8192.

Be the voice behind meaningful stories. Inspire communities. Create impact. Join the BFAR IX SAAD Phase II family today!

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD, Kaagapay sa maunlad na buhay!

28/07/2026

𝐁𝐅𝐀𝐑 𝐈𝐗 𝐒𝐀𝐀𝐃 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐞𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬' 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠

ZAMBOANGA CITY | July 24, 2026 — The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Zamboanga Peninsula through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Phase II Program, convened its Area Coordinators at the BFAR IX Conference Hall to strengthen coordination and improve program implementation across the region.

Regional Director Al-Zath K. Kunting underscored the importance of teamwork, accountability, and timely reporting in achieving the goals of the SAAD Phase II Program. He encouraged the Area Coordinators to maintain close coordination with partner communities and stakeholders to ensure the effective delivery of interventions and services.

Regional Alternate SAAD Focal Person Mr. Marlon B. Dagandan with Ms. Irish B. Mamhot, Lead, OPBMEU facilitated the meeting and led discussions on key program updates and implementation concerns. The participants reviewed the progress of Community-Based Enterprise (CBE) establishment, assessed the financial status of Fisherfolk Cooperative Associations (FCAs), and discussed updates on Public Relations and Development Communication (PRDC).

The meeting also covered the status of post-harvest facilities, documentation requirements, and the submission of monthly accomplishment reports. Area Coordinators shared field experiences, best practices, and implementation challenges, allowing the group to identify practical solutions and strategies that can be adopted in other project sites.

The exchange of insights strengthened coordination among the Area Coordinators and reinforced the importance of consistent monitoring, accurate documentation, and timely reporting in ensuring the successful implementation of SAAD Phase II activities.

Writer: Maria Christina I. Gil –Administrative Assistant IV- RPMSO
Photo Credit: SAAD RPMSO

DA - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program
DA - SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula
BFAR Region 9

SAAD Kaagapay sa Maunlad na Buhay.

27/07/2026

Sharing from BFAR - Special Area for Agricultural Development Program