Solano, Nueva Vizcaya – In celebration of Farmers and Fisherfolk Month, the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Region 02, through its Provincial Fisheries Office in Nueva Vizcaya, led a series of environmental and livelihood initiatives on May 14–15, 2025.

Fisherfolk Regional Director Helen Eva Guzman, alongside local communities, spearheaded a clean-up drive to promote healthy aquatic ecosystems. Ms. Apple Joy Usquisa, OIC-FRMS also educated participants on the threats posed by Invasive Alien Species, particularly the Janitor Fish, and shared strategies to manage their impact on native biodiversity. FRD Guzman also conducted a site visit at Manamtam Salt Spring in Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya, and visited Guinamgaman Lake in Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya, for the implementation of the Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa (BASIL) Project.

In Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya, a training session on fish smoking techniques was conducted, aimed at enhancing fisherfolk income and minimizing post-harvest losses. FRD Guzman emphasized the agency’s dedication to equipping communities with practical skills for sustainable livelihoods. These activities reflect BFAR’s ongoing commitment to environmental protection and economic empowerment of fishing communities in the region. (K. Romero)