Capitol installs storm-strong fishing cages

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2015/08/23/capitol-installs-storm-strong-fishing-cages-426312
• Sunday, August 23, 2015

By Flornisa M. Gitgano

THE Provincial Government installed typhoon-resilient fish cages in the 12 towns of northern Cebu that were affected typhoon Yolanda.

At least 28 high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fish cages were turned over and used by fishermen associations in the 12 local government units, more than 21 months after Yolanda hit.

The Capitol explained that the implementation of the project took longer than what was agreed by Capitol and the BFAR because of the procurement process.

In a press statement, Capitol had three failed biddings.

According to the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO), the HDPE fish cages were made according to the Capitol’s “build back better” approach.

After typhoon Yolanda hit last Nov. 8, 2013, bamboo-made fish cages in the northern towns were destroyed.

PAO said the HDPE cages can survive strong waves and can last for more than ten years.

Each cages has 9 by 6 meter frame and five-meter in length.

The funds used for the project came from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

BFAR downloaded P33 million to Capitol last year to rehabilitate damaged fish farms and fishing equipment.

These cages can accommodate 3,000 fingerlings.

The Capitol will provide the first batch of fingerlings while the LGU will only have to spend for the feeds.

Where

The LGUs that have availed themselves of the assistance are Bantayan, Madridejos, Santa Fe, Daanbantayan, Medellin, San Remigio, Tabogon, Tabuelan, San Francisco, Poro, Tudela and Bogo City.

The PAO said the project is not applicable in the towns of Borbon, Sogod, Tuburan and Pilar, which are also affected by Yolanda, but their fishermen can still get other assistance from the government.

The Capitol is also about to complete the delivery of fishing equipment, such as fish pots, craft pots, nets, fish attracting devices, set longlines and other materials for seaweed farms.

All these will be given to the 16 LGU’s affected by Yolanda.

Josephine Lane Cabuñac, Agriculturist II of PAO, said the procurement was made according to the itemized costing set by BFAR.

She said the Capitol only validated the site and implement the rehabilitation plan.