1st FishTival Celebration at Aklan Agri-Aqua Demonstration Farm and Training Center

The Aklan Agri-Aqua Demonstration Farm and Training Center (AAADFTC) officially launched the 1st FishTival Celebration, showcasing the importance of fisheries and aquaculture in the province.

Blessing and Opening Program

The celebration began with the Blessing of the AAADFTC Dormitory led by Rev. Fr. Magloire Placer, accompanied by AAADFTC staff. This was followed by the Opening Program at the AAADFTC Multi-Purpose Hall, attended by invited guests and participants including Fisherfolks Associations, Bantay-Dagat, and Local Farmer's Technicians.

AAADFTC Supervisor Emmanuel Soviet Russia A. Dela Cruz warmly welcomed the guests. Former Governor of Aklan Hon. Florencio T. Miraflores delivered an inspirational message along with SB Member Nemesio Neron, Committee on Agriculture, Provincial Agriculturist Engr. Alexys T. Apolonio, and BFAR-PFO Aklan representative Rico Magno.

Mr. Christian V. Deza, Head of Fisheries Extension and Regulatory Division, introduced the guest speaker, Ms. Ma. Jodecel C. Danting, Chief of BFAR-NFTC from Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. Ms. Danting shared her knowledge and support for the event, accompanied by Ms. Lea Valerozo and Ms. Lilibeth Afan. Certificates and tokens of appreciation were awarded to the guests in recognition of their contributions.

The highlight of the program was the awarding of 2,000 bangus fry to 10 selected fish farmers, produced by the Multi-Species Nursery for free. The program ended with a closing message from Ms. Grace-an V. Perlas, Aquaculturist II.

To officially open the FishTival celebration, a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was led by Emmanuel Soviet Russia A. Dela Cruz, Christian V. Deza, and Ms. Ma. Jodecel C. Danting, with media coverage from different radio stations and participation from key partners.

FishTival Farm Tour

More than 500 students from various schools participated in the Farm Tour activity to explore the AAADFTC facilities. The schools included:

• Infant Jesus Academy

• Kalibo Pilot Elementary School (1st and 2nd Batch)

• Pook Integrated School

• Dela Cruz Institute of Business Industries (DIBI Inc.)

• Regional Science High School

  
  
  
  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  
  

The students experienced fish feeding, seed sowing, and observed ornamental fish species, greenhouses, and the Aklan Provincial Freshwater Hatchery. The AAADFTC extends its gratitude to the participating schools and faculty for allowing the students to learn about Fisheries and Agriculture.

FishTival Skills Trainings and Seminars

The event also featured various skills trainings and seminars attended by students, fisherfolks, and aquaculture enthusiasts. The trainings included:

• Bangus Deboning and Smoking

• Tilapia and Hito Grow-out Culture and Breeding Process

• Ornamental Fish Breeding Process

• D.I.Y Breeding Materials

• Live Foods Culture

• Urban Aquaponics

• Aquarium Making and Basic Aqua-Scaping

The resource persons from TATEH Aqua Feeds and Fisheries Extension Regulatory Division shared valuable knowledge to equip participants with practical skills for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture.

The 1st FishTival Celebration is a testament to the dedication of the AAADFTC in promoting agricultural and aquacultural development, empowering local communities, and creating opportunities for future generations.