30/09/2025
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šššš®š«š | Tilapia brings in PhP 1.2-M: SAAD-funded BGFA rises strong in Abra
The Bagalay Gaddani Fisherfolk Association (BGFA) of Tayum, Abra grossed ā±1.2 million in just two years from tilapia farming. With 17 members managing 3,400 square meters of ponds, the group maximized their aquaculture experience with the help of free inputs and a series of capacity-building trainings through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic ResourcesāCAR-Special Area for Agricultural Development (BFAR-SAAD) Program Phase II.
This accomplishment can be attributed to the experience of BGFAās members in aquaculture, many of whom have been involved in backyard fish farming. Tayum is one of the key tilapia-producing municipalities in Abra, making aquaculture a natural livelihood choice for residents, many of whom were already engaged in fish vending or small-scale pond operations. Bagalay and Gaddani, the only two barangays in Tayum suitable for fish farming, were the focus of the program due to their existing fishponds.
However, beyond this rise are struggles in between. When Typhoon Egay and Tropical Storm Katrina struck, some members lost ponds, but bayanihan kept the group afloat. Members with intact ponds lent space to others, while crop insurance cushioned damages. This solidarity and resilience enabled them to sustain production and recover quickly from the setbacks.
āWhatās truly remarkable is how quickly this group was able to revive their pond operations after being hit by these typhoons. Even those who temporarily lost their ponds were able to continue, thanks to the generosity of fellow members and their strong sense of Bayanihan. Their ability to bounce back and keep going, despite the damage, shows just how resilient and committed they are to their livelihoodā, Tayum Municipal Agriculturist Romero A. Ramos said.
Their harvests, sold at ā±140āā±180 per kilo, reached community buyers, local vendors along the national highway, and wholesalers supplying nearby towns. This steady marketing strategy not only ensured continuous income but also strengthened the groupās presence in Abraās aquaculture market.
More than financial gain, the project has improved the lives of members. Earnings helped parents support childrenās education, expand pond operations, and even improve homes. To date, BGFA has saved ā±553,000 in a group account, with half reserved to finance future pond cycles once external support ends.
BGFA President Reinerio T. Dumlao expressed heartfelt thanks to SAAD and all stakeholders who supported them along the way: "Because of your help, we were able to grow, persevere, and achieve milestones we once thought were beyond our reach. The impact of the SAAD program goes far beyond what we can express in wordsā.
Meanwhile, according to Joel S. Fernandez, BGFA member, ādonāt be afraid to try. Aquaculture has been a game-changer for me, especially financially. So donāt just try, do it.ā
Looking ahead, BGFA aims to diversify by establishing fish stalls in Bagalay and Gaddani and venturing into value-added products like smoked tilapia. Their story shows that with teamwork, resilience, and the right support, fisherfolk can rise above challenges and build a sustainable livelihood.//EBognay and Abra Area Coordinator Marjorie G. Mendez
Bfar Cordillera Saad Bfar Car
