IN FOCUS: WOMEN IN FISHERIES BREAKING BARRIER IN TILAPIA PRODUCTION
From Edible Frogs to Tilapia Fingerlings: The Inspiring Journey of Vivian Taniza
Fish farming is traditionally a male dominated field. However, in the municipality of San Mateo, Isabela, a renowned home of agricultural achievers, the name of Vivian Taniza, 53, resonates in the realm of Tilapia fingerling production business.
Her painstaking journey as one of the thriving Tilapia fingerling producers in the Cagayan Valley Region is a remarkable testament to her perseverance, resilience, and groundbreaking contributions to the fish farming industry, particularly in Tilapia fingerling production. In an industry traditionally dominated by men, she not only succeeded but excelled, breaking barriers and paving the way for more women to enter and thrive in agriculture and aquaculture.
Her story highlights the power of women to drive change, especially in fields where gender roles are often seen as limiting. Vivian’s dedication to improving the industry and her innovative approaches are an inspiration to others, showing that gender does not define one’s potential to make an impact. These innovations she employed in the business and notable contributions in the blue economy took her to the corridors of Malacanang Palace.
Her recognition with the Gawad Saka Award in 2017, a prestigious award given to outstanding agricultural achievers (Fish Culture) category also emphasizes the importance of empowering women in all sectors, including agriculture, where their contributions often go unnoticed but are equally vital to the growth and sustainability of industries. Vivian’s success is a beacon of hope and a call for more inclusive opportunities for women in business and beyond.
At 53 years old, Vivian, owner of the V&V Tilapia Fingerling Production business in San Mateo, Isabela, is a living testament to the power of resilience, determination, and generosity. From her humble beginnings as a woman selling edible frogs, Vivian has become one of the region’s most respected and successful tilapia fingerling producers. Her story is not just one of business success; it’s a narrative of overcoming adversity, building a legacy, and giving back to those in need.
Raised by an impoverished family, Vivian recalled that there were days when they only ate once a day. Money was scarce, and the struggles of daily life made it difficult to envision a brighter future. But even in the face of hardship, Vivian’s determination to rise above her circumstances was unshakable. By the age of 20, in 1992, she married her husband Virgilio and became a mother, further adding to the challenges of supporting a family. Yet, despite the financial and emotional burdens, Vivian was motivated by the belief that life could be different.
The breakthrough came in 1995, when Vivian and her husband attended a seminar at the then Cagayan Valley Research Station for Freshwater in San Mateo, Isabela. It was there that they were introduced to the growing tilapia industry. The seminar opened their eyes to the untapped potential of fish farming, and from that moment on, Vivian and her family knew they had found their path.
Their entry into the tilapia farming business wasn’t without its struggles. Initially, they dabbled in fish farming as a means to diversify their livelihood, but the venture was not without challenges. The early years were marked by trial and error, with failed harvests and limited resources. However, Vivian and her family’s perseverance saw them through, and they gradually gained the knowledge and experience needed to succeed.
In the late 1990s, Vivian saw an opportunity to focus on tilapia fingerling production—supplying high-quality seeds to other farmers.This decision would prove to be pivotal, as demand for tilapia fingerlings grew exponentially. What began as a small-scale operation soon blossomed into one of the leading tilapia fingerling producers in Region 02. Armed with her determination and utmost confidence which she calls”Puskol Rupa”, she attended a bidding for fingerling supplier at the DA-BFAR Cordillera Administrative Region. The roads weren’t easy at first, but with perseverance, Vivian and her husband learned the ropes of the business
Today, Vivian’s V&V Tilapia Fingerling Production is a cornerstone of the region’s aquaculture industry. The farm plays a crucial role in supplying quality tilapia fingerlings, not only to farmers in Cagayan Valley but also to neighboring provinces. Vivian’s reputation for producing top-tier fingerlings has earned her respect within the aquaculture community, and her farm is often sought out by fish farmers looking to boost their own production.
Looking back on the years of hard work and sacrifices, Vivian admits that she never imagined they would reach the success they have today. “Even in my dreams, I never believed we would come this far,” she says. “It was a journey full of struggles, but we held on to the dream, and now, we’re enjoying the fruits of our labor.”
While Vivian is now able to enjoy the perks of a comfortable life, she hasn’t forgotten her roots. Raised in poverty, she is deeply empathetic to the struggles of others and is committed to sharing her blessings with those in need. Whether through donations, mentorship, or direct assistance, Vivian consistently looks for ways to give back to her community. For her, success is not just about personal wealth, it’s about uplifting others and helping them find opportunities for a better life.
Her entrepreneurial spirit has inspired many aspiring farmers in the region, and she is often invited to share her experiences and expertise at seminars and workshops. Despite her success, Vivian remains humble and grounded, always remembering the journey from which she came.
Vivian Taniza’s story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance, creativity, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities, anyone can transform their life even in the face of the greatest odds. From a woman selling frogs to a leading tilapia fingerling producer, Vivian’s legacy is one of hard work, generosity, and a belief in the power of dreams.
