TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office 2 (BFAR RO2) spearheaded the Re-Orientation on Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) No. 263, series of 2019, and the Regional Election of Sectoral Representatives for Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 1 on October 1, 2025, at Hotel Carmelita, Tuguegarao City.
The activity served as a venue to refresh stakeholders on the salient provisions of FAO 263, which institutionalizes the science-based and participatory approach in fisheries management through FMAs. It also provided updates on the region’s initiatives and created an avenue for stakeholders to actively participate in shaping policies toward sustainable fisheries.
In his message, BFAR RO2 Regional Director Angel Encarnacion expressed optimism that the activity will further strengthen collaboration among fisheries stakeholders. “Ako po ay umaasa na sa Region 2 ay maitatag at maisusulong natin ang nararapat na kinatawan sa nalalapit na FAO selection of representatives. Ang inyong presensya ay patunay ng inyong suporta at malasakit para sa ating mga mangingisda at komunidad. Sa ating pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan, naniniwala ako na magiging makabuluhan at produktibo ang ating mga gawain,” he said.
Discussions during the program were delivered by Ms. Apple Usquisa, who presented the rationale of the activity; Mr. Mark Kevin Ramos, who shared BFAR’s Programs, Projects, and Activities (PPAs); Atty. Arsenio Banares, who gave an overview and re-orientation lecture on FAO 263 and FMAs; Dr. Emma Ballad, who tackled regional FMA 1 initiatives, issues, gaps, and stakeholder roles; and Mr. Rjay Torres, who briefed participants on the guidelines and process of the election.
The highlight of the event was the election of the Regional Sectoral Representatives, who will serve as Region 2’s official delegates in the upcoming Election of Sectoral representatives for FMA 1 Management Board on October 8, 2025. Elected as sectoral representatives were Mayor Licerio M. Antiporda III of Buguey, Cagayan for the Local Government Unit sector; Mr. Manolo Pineda for Municipal Fisheries; Mr. Jaime Yosores for Commercial Fisheries; Mr. Rashep Valencia for Aquaculture; Mr. Rogelio Udag for IFARMC; and Ms. Sanny Cortez for Processors and Market Traders.
BFAR RO2 emphasized that this election ensures inclusive representation across all fisheries sectors in Region 2, reinforcing the government’s thrust to promote sustainable, science-based, and community-driven fisheries management. (Evelyn Talla, FMRED)