Sourced from the Japanese Embassy by Tracy Cabrera
PASAY CITY, Metro Manila — Recognizing the importance of supporting livelihood programs that would strengthen food security, Japan’s Minister for Economic Affairs Naobumi Yokota has committed to expand sustainable fisheries initiatives through inclusive development.
Yokota recently visited Lanao del Sur in to inspect ongoing Japan-backed livelihood projects aimed at strengthening sustainable fisheries and supporting the rehabilitation of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
The Japanese minister attended the groundbreaking ceremony for an aquaculture pond at the Marawi City Jail that has been designed to equip PDLs with aquaculture skills and livelihood opportunities to help them reintegrate into society after their release from imprisonment.
In his remarks, Yokota emphasized the importance of inclusive development that benefits all sectors of society.
During the visit, he also met with Lanao del Sur governor Mamintal ‘Bombit’ Alonto Adiong Jr. and Poona Bayabao mayor Janimah Derogongan-Pandi to discuss the current state of the province’s agriculture and fisheries sectors and opportunities for further development.
After visiting the Marawi prison facility, Yokota then visited the local fishing association in Poona Bayabao that is receiving assistance under a Japan-supported fisheries project.
The initiative seeks to strengthen the association’s long-term capacity through training in feed mill operations, feed formulation and entrepreneurship.
It also supports the establishment of a pilot-scale Halal-certified aquaculture feed mill, including the construction of a feed mill building and the provision of equipment.
ia/xf
