TUGUEGARAO CITY – Seaweeds resources in Region 02 can now be enjoyed in many ways as the DA-BFAR 2 recently held the Seaweeds Utilization Contest, an initiative aimed at exploring innovative uses of seaweed for both food and non-food applications in time for this year’s Farmers and Fisherfolk Month celebration on May 8, 2025.
The contest is part of the agency’s ongoing advocacy to promote the consumption and utilization of seaweeds, particularly among young to adult consumers.
Participants showcased a variety of creative entries that demonstrated the versatility of seaweed in culinary dishes, fertilizer, fish feed and as decorative or craft material. By encouraging innovation and awareness, the contest aims to boost the local seaweed industry and highlight its economic and environmental benefits
The fisheries Bureau continues to support initiatives that empower communities and promote sustainable aquaculture, aligning with national goals for food security and livelihood development.
Dr. Evelyn C. Ame, head researcher presented the importance of seaweeds resources, its uses and potential as commodity for research and development initiatives.
Meantime, Dr. Emma L. Ballad, who represented Regional Director Angel B. Encarnacion, said that bulk of seaweeds production comes from Region 02 which accounts 60% of the total fish production in the country comes from seaweeds, which is also a leading export agri-fisheries commodity.
Recognizing their gastronomic insights, technical expertise and research and development initiatives, Regional Director Virginia Bilgera of DOST- RO2, Regional Director Troy Alexander Gozum Miano of DOT RO2, Assistant Regional Director Oliver Baccay of PIA RO2, Chef Dianne Camayang of La Flamme Bleue and Ms. Lilian D. Marasigan of the DEPDev (formerly NEDA), graced the event as judges.
List of Winners:
Snacks for Children
1st PLACE – Cagayan State University (Gracilaria Ice Cream)
2nd PLACE – Sinag Kababaihan – Sta. Praxedes (Empanadang Gamet with Balls)
3rd PLACE – Rural Improvement Club of Cauayan City (Aragan Chips)
Main Dish
1st PLACE – Sinag Kababaihan (Dinengdeng with Gamet)
2nd PLACE – Rural Improvement Club of Cauayan City (Dinakdakan Seaweeds)
3rd PLACE – Young Fisheries Innovators – Graci Balls (sweet and sour flavors)
Non-food Applications
1st PLACE – Licerio Antiporda Sr. National High School – Gura Bran (Fish Feed for Malaga fish)
2nd PLACE – Rural Improvement Club of Divisoria Sur, Maddela, Quirino – plant fertilizer (Ar-arosip)
3rd PLACE – Young Fisheries Innovators – Seaweave ( a seaweed-based counter part for abaca or sinamay weave )