Japanese Minister for Economic Affairs YOKOTA Naobumi visited Lanao del Sur on July 7 to reaffirm Japan’s support for sustainable fisheries, agricultural development, and livelihood initiatives in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Japanese Minister for Economic Affairs YOKOTA Naobumi visits Lanao del Sur on July 7, where he attended the groundbreaking of an aquaculture pond at Marawi City Jail, met with local government officials, and visited a Japan-supported fishing association in Poona Bayabao as part of Japan’s continuing support for sustainable fisheries and livelihood development in BARMM. (PHOTO FROM EMBASSY OF JAPAN IN THE PHILIPPINES)
During the visit, Yokota attended and delivered remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for an aquaculture pond at the Marawi City Jail. The project aims to equip Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) with aquaculture skills and livelihood opportunities to help them successfully reintegrate into society after their release.
In his speech, Yokota emphasized the importance of promoting inclusive development that creates opportunities for all sectors of society, including vulnerable communities.
Japanese Minister for Economic Affairs YOKOTA Naobumi. (PHOTO FROM EMBASSY OF JAPAN IN THE PHILIPPINES)
As part of his visit, Yokota also met with Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr. and Poona Bayabao Mayor Janimah L. Derogongan-Pandi to discuss the current state of agriculture and fisheries in the province and explore opportunities for further cooperation.
The Japanese official likewise visited a local fishing association in Poona Bayabao that is benefiting from a Japan-supported fisheries development project.
The initiative seeks to strengthen the association’s long-term sustainability through training in feed mill operations, feed formulation, business management, and entrepreneurship. It also supports the establishment of a pilot-scale Halal-certified aquaculture feed mill, including the construction of a feed mill facility and the provision of essential equipment.
During his dialogue with association members, Yokota encouraged them to maximize and sustain the assistance provided to ensure long-term benefits for their communities.
Fisheries remain a critical source of livelihood and income for thousands of small-scale fisherfolk across BARMM. However, the sector continues to face challenges, including post-harvest losses, declining fish production, and limited access to modern technologies.
To help address these issues, the Government of Japan, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, is implementing the Project for the Development of Sustainable Fishery Value Chain in BARMM.
The three-year initiative, running from 2025 to 2027, covers the provinces of Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi. The project aims to improve fisheries productivity, strengthen value chains, and enhance the incomes and resilience of fishing communities across the region.
AloJapan.com