The Paratong Asenso Fisherfolk Association celebrated a significant milestone with a successful harvest festival, marking the completion of their second production cycle of pond-based tilapia culture received through the DA-BFAR SAAD Phase II program. The four-month cycle culminated in December 2024 with an impressive harvest of 1,112 kilograms of tilapia, generating ₱144,625 in income.

The journey was not without difficulties. Members shared that adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rains and typhoons, posed significant challenges. “Kahit bumabagyo, tuloy pa rin ang trabaho dito sa fishpond. Mahirap man, pero nagkaisa kami para hindi masayang ang proyekto,” said Solomon Regua, a member of the association. To address these challenges, the group implemented a rotational duty system to ensure the fishpond was continuously monitored and maintained. This resilience and teamwork became key factors in the FA’s success.

The project provided not only an economic boost to the members but also a source of affordable fish for the local community.

Regua added, “Napakalaking tulong nitong binigay niyong proyekto. Kahit papaano, ay laking tulong nito para sa aming pamilya, bagaman dito na lang kami minsan umaasa.”

The income from the harvest has helped improve the quality of life for many families, with some members using their share for daily expenses and fund for education and medical needs.

With their recent success, the association is now exploring opportunities for fry-to-fingerling production of tilapia. “Gusto din naming subukang mag-fry-to-fingerling production, nang sa ganun ay magkaroon din kami ng ibang pagkakakitaan,” Regua said.

Plans are underway to secure additional support and training to ensure their new ventures are as successful as their pond culture tilapia project.

The association attributes much of their success to the strong camaraderie and shared commitment among members. “Ang bawat isa ay nagtutulungan, lalo na kapag may problema. Ang tagumpay namin ay tagumpay ng lahat,” said Julian Ragudo, the association’s treasurer. This unity has allowed them to overcome challenges and continuously improve their operations.

Speaking on behalf of the association, Ragudo expressed heartfelt appreciation for BFAR’s continued support. “Sa ngalan ng Paratong Asenso Fisherfolk Association, ako po’y lubos na nagpapasalamat sa DA-BFAR SAAD Region 1 sa walang sawang pagtulong sa amin. Nawa’y huwag kayong magsawang tumulong sa amin. Kung gaano niyo kami pinapahalagahan, ay siya rin pag-papahalaga ang ibinibigay namin sa proyektong ito.”

This harvest festival is more than just a celebration of the association’s achievement; it also underscores how programs like SAAD empower fisherfolk communities. By providing resources, training, and technical support, these initiatives contribute to sustainable livelihoods, enhanced income, and better quality of life for families in Sta. Catalina.