Zamboanga Sibugay, long hailed as a leading province in grouper production, takes strides to expand its grouper culture across the Zamboanga Peninsula (ZamPen). The Department of Agriculture- Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Regional Office 9 spearheaded this endeavor through the Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division (RFTFCD) and Provincial Fishery Office, Zamboanga Sbugay where the 3rd batch of Trainers’ Training on Grouper Grow-out Culture and Live Transport Techniques was recently conducted in Ipil and Kabasalan from July 25 to 27, 2023.

The intensive three-day training actively participated by some Fisheries Technicians from Zamboanga City, Isabela City, and Zamboanga del Sur featured learning activities, such as lectures, workshops, written examinations, and hands-on training on the technical intricacies of grouper culture and live transport techniques. The training also covered a field tour activity conducted in the municipality of Kabasalan where the participants visited the area of Kapunungan sa Gagmay’ng Mangingisda sa Concepcion (KGMC). During the tour, the esteemed Mr. Roberto A. Ballon, a renowned grouper culturist and recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award, led the demonstration of live transport technology. He also shared his unique technique for packing live transport of high-value species. The training culminated in resounding success as the fishery technicians presented their fish cage designs, along with comprehensive plans for proper fish cage management, operation, and Financial Analysis for Grouper Grow-out Culture on fish cages.

The equipped participants may help promote effective grouper cage culture and live transport techniques in the region with knowledge and skill learned. Zamboanga Sibugay’s legacy in grouper production continues to flourish, and with the support of DA-BFAR, it is poised to inspire other provinces in harnessing the potential of this vital aquaculture industry.