With a deep sense of purpose and unity, the Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, in collaboration with the Provincial Fisherfolk Council of Leaders, officially launched the 61st Fish Conservation Week on September 16, 2024, at the Provincial Capitol Grounds.
Carrying this year’s theme, “Sama-sama Tungo sa Likas-kayang Pangisdaan sa Bagong Pilipinas” (“Together Towards Sustainable Fisheries in the New Philippines”), the weeklong celebration underscores the province’s strong commitment to marine conservation and inclusive development for fisherfolk. The festivities will run until September 20, 2024.
The highlight of the opening day was the distribution of 132 fiberglass boats and 33 sets of fishing nets and paraphernalia, a major step toward supporting local fisherfolk and enhancing the sustainability of their livelihood. These livelihood packages aim to improve safety, productivity, and economic resilience among fishing communities.
The ceremony was graced by prominent provincial leaders including Vice-Governor Joseph V. Ascutia, Provincial Administrator Don Eduardo S. Padilla (representing Governor Ricarte R. Padilla), Board Member Winifredo B. Oco, Provincial Agriculturist Almirante A. Abad, Atty. May Dan S. Jalgalado, and Barangay Affairs District Heads Messrs. John Enero and Boyet Valeros.
A diverse set of activities was prepared throughout the week under FishCon 2024, including:
- Kadiwa ng Pangulo: Tiangge sa FishCon, a local market promoting fresh and affordable fishery products;
- FARMC-On-Air on DWCN-FM 96.9 Radyo Pilipinas, a radio broadcast highlighting fishery issues and solutions;
- Lecture-demonstrations featuring innovative fish recipes to encourage value-adding and healthy consumption;
- Distribution of Bangus and Tilapia fingerlings to selected fish farmers and fisherfolk cooperatives;
- And community competitions like the Crab Relay, Biggest Tilapia Contest, and Fastest Hook Tying Challenge, promoting camaraderie and skills development.
Key government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture (DA), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also showed their full support for the initiative.
Local government units, fisherfolk associations, aquaculture stakeholders, and the broader community were encouraged to replicate such initiatives, ensuring that sustainable fisheries becomes not just a policy—but a shared responsibility.
The celebration concluded on September 20 at People’s Park, Provincial Capitol Grounds, marking not just the end of an event, but the beginning of a deeper, collective voyage—toward resilient coastal communities, thriving marine ecosystems, and a future firmly anchored in sustainability.