The Office of the President has recently announced President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s appointment of Elizer S. Salilig as the new national director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

Salilig, a veteran public servant with over 34 years of experience in the fisheries sector, was sworn into office by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel last Wednesday.

“It is an honor to be appointed by President Marcos as the National Director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources,” Salilig said in a statement. “My top priority is to ensure the effective and efficient implementation of BFAR’s programs, with a steadfast commitment to advancing food security and supporting our fisherfolk.”

Salilig began his career as a Fishery Technician for the Department of Agriculture in Region XII and later held managerial roles, including Aquaculturist I and Concurrent Planning and Budget Officer, where he oversaw the planning, monitoring and evaluation of programs aimed at developing the fisheries sector.

He also played a key role in the Fisheries Scholarship Program, implementing initiatives to cultivate the next generation of fisheries professionals.

In 2016, he was appointed regional director of BFAR MIMAROPA and during his tenure, he spearheaded several key projects, including the Tilapia Intensive Hatchery Production program, which produced millions of fingerlings weekly, and the establishment of the country’s first shrimp hatchery in Oriental Mindoro.

These projects significantly boosted aquaculture production and supported national programs to enhance food security.

Under his leadership, the BFAR regional office also underwent a major renovation, resulting in a modern facility that improved service delivery.

Recognizing the growing challenges posed by climate change, Salilig pledged to prioritize sustainability in his leadership.

“I am determined to focus on strengthening the aquaculture industry and transitioning toward sustainable fisheries practices,” Salilig said. “To achieve this, we will actively collaborate with other government agencies and academic institutions to enhance research and development efforts.”

Salilig’s appointment is widely viewed as a crucial step toward restoring trust and stability in the agency tasked with overseeing the country’s fisheries sector.

“Ultimately, my goal is to lead the agency in fulfilling its mission to ensure fish sufficiency, improve the quality of life of our fisherfolk, and align with the President’s vision of boosting productivity and yields, thereby uplifting their standard of living,” said Salilig.

With his extensive experience and proven track record, Salilig is expected to lead BFAR toward sustainable growth and provide stronger support for the fisheries sector, which plays a vital role in food security and the Philippine economy.