Aquafarmers in Misamis Occidental harvested approximately 3,031 pieces of bangus, with an average weight of 333 grams, out of the projected 5,000. (Photo courtesy of BFAR Misamis Occidental)
TheMindanaoToday.com | Emergency Bangus harvest in Misamis Occidental nets P131,060 in sales
BONIFACIO, Misamis Occidental – A partial emergency harvest of bangus (milkfish) by the Baybay United Fisherfolk Association (BUFA) under the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase 2 generated P131,060.00 in sales.
The harvest was conducted following incidents of fish mortality caused by sudden weather changes.
BUFA President Francisco Tibong said the decision was made after observing dead fish, believed to be caused by “ayaay” (overturning of water layers) triggered by extreme heat, followed by sudden heavy rain.
Members agreed to an early harvest to minimize losses and recover part of their investment. From the projected 5,000 pieces of bangus, the group harvested approximately 3,031 pieces, with an average weight of 333 grams.
The fish had been cultured for three months using 17 bags of starter feeds and 108 bags of grower feeds. The full harvest was originally scheduled for June, but the situation required immediate action.
The early harvest yielded 486.5 kilograms sold to buyers in Barangay Baybay, and another 796 kilograms purchased by a bulk buyer from Migpangi, Bonifacio, for distribution in Bacolod City.
Tibong said the harvest allowed the group to partially recover operational costs and continue their livelihood activity. (BFAR Misamis Occidental/PIA Misamis Occidental)
###
