For over two decades, she fought against raging flames, leading with resilience and courage. Now, her battleground has shifted from fire to water. Meet the trailblazing woman who defied norms, served the government with dedication, and is now making waves in the world of aquaculture. Up to this day, the name Susana Rivera, still resonates in the town of Ramon in Isabela province. Married to Loreto for 21 years, she is a doting mother of a lady and two wonderful boys.
A Trailblazer in the Bureau of Fire Protection
In a profession historically dominated by men, she shattered barriers and made history. On October 2, 2012, she was hailed as the first lady fire marshal in Region 02. With a deep sense of duty and an unwavering commitment to public service, she dedicated 24 years and six months of her life to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
Her leadership was tested time and again as she handled emergencies, led rescue operations, and ensured the safety of communities. But she thrived amidst challenges, proving that women, too, can lead in high-stakes environments.
The Unexpected Turn: From Fire Marshal to Fish Farming Entrepreneur
Retiring in 2024 did not mean slowing down. Inspired by her siblings’ success in fish farming, she saw a new opportunity, one that could still serve her community but in a different way. With a background in agriculture and criminology, she quickly adapted to the aquaculture industry, investing in more than ten fish cages in Magat Dam.
The transition from a fire marshal to a fish farming entrepreneur was not easy. Yet, her passion for leadership and service remained steadfast. She learned the intricacies of the trade, from managing fish stocks to navigating the economic landscape of aquaculture.
Championing the Cause of Farmers and Fisherfolk
Her dedication to public service did not end with her retirement. Seeing the struggles of farmers and fisherfolk in her province, she stepped up once again, not as a government official, but as a leader in the private sector. Elected as the head of the Isabela Aqua-Agriculture Cooperative, she embraced a new mission: to uplift the socio-economic conditions of those who rely on the land and water for their livelihood.
Through the cooperative, she fosters collaboration among local farmers and fishers, advocating for sustainable practices, financial empowerment, and technological advancements in aquaculture. Under her leadership, the cooperative has become a beacon of hope, proving that community-driven initiatives can lead to meaningful change.
An Empowered Woman Leading the Way
Her story is one of transformation of resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding desire to serve. From battling blazes to nurturing aquatic life, she has shown that true leadership transcends professions. She remains an inspiration, proving that even after retirement, a leader’s impact can ripple far and wide.
As she continues her journey, one thing is certain: whether in fire or in water, she remains a force to be reckoned with.
With her being elected as the chairperson of the Regional Fisherfolk Council, she is hopeful that with the support of the whole sector and with the fisheries Bureau on her side, through baby steps, her dreams to carve a niche in the realm of fisheries will come to fruition.
