BACOLOD City — The local government of Sagay City, Negros Occidental has intensified its food security and livelihood efforts with the distribution of 18,000 tilapia fingerlings to local beneficiaries, aiming to strengthen household food supply and promote sustainable aquaculture.
The fingerlings were turned over to 16 beneficiaries on April 21 at the City Agriculture Hatchery in Barangay Rizal. The activity was led by Mayor Leo Rafael M. Cueva, along with City Agriculturist Julie Delima and staff.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to help residents cope with rising food costs by encouraging small-scale fish farming.
Cueva said fish farming is a practical way to enhance household food supply, especially during times of crisis, and urged residents to maximize available spaces for aquaculture.
“In times like this, cooperation and resourcefulness are important. Even those without farmland can raise fish through small ponds and contribute to their family’s food supply,” the mayor said.
He added that the city government will continue to support agriculture-based initiatives, including vegetable production, livestock, poultry, and fisheries, to ensure a steady food supply for Sagaynons.
Cueva also shared that the city is exploring programs to purchase produce from local farmers for redistribution to communities with limited access to food production.
He expressed optimism that beneficiaries could begin harvesting tilapia within four to six months, contributing to both food availability and additional income.
The program also received support from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the Negros Island Region, which provided an additional 25,000 fingerlings to augment the city’s supply.
Local officials said the partnership strengthens the city’s capacity to expand its fisheries program and reach more communities.
Among the beneficiaries were local residents and small-scale farmers, including a senior high school student recognized for his initiative in aquaculture.
Cueva encouraged Grade 12 student Kenneth Montinola to participate in youth development programs such as Batang Sagaynon to further hone his skills.
Delima expressed optimism that the recipients will serve as models for other residents, encouraging wider adoption of fish farming practices across barangays.
The tilapia distribution forms part of Sagay City’s broader push to strengthen its local food systems and improve community resilience./PN
