Various fisherfolk cooperatives and local government units with significant fishing communities have expressed support for the appointment of Elizer Salilig as the new director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) as they believe his extensive career in fisheries management will benefit the sector.

To recall, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently appointed Salilig, a public servant with 34 years of experience in fisheries management, to lead the BFAR. He was sworn into office on 24 January by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel.

Juliet Gutierrez, president of Samaka Sablayan, an association of over 20 cooperatives, praised Salilig for his assistance in organizing women fisherfolk cooperatives in the MIMAROPA region (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan).

Gutierrez credited Salilig with helping them achieve their goal of establishing “one women fisherfolk cooperative per municipality.”

Meantime, Geraldo Abello, chairperson of the Dahilican Roxas Fishermen Cooperative, highlighted Salilig’s efforts in upskilling fishers in Oriental Mindoro to become entrepreneurs and engage in small businesses beyond traditional fishing.

“He was instrumental in opening our eyes, as fishermen, to the fact that we shouldn't just rely on our catch, but that we should also become entrepreneurs and engage in business,” Abello said.

Bongabong Mayor Elegio Malaluan, also president of the League of Mayors of Oriental Mindoro, also stressed that Salilig’s tenure as regional director of BFAR-MIMAROPA strengthened cooperation between the agency and local governments.  He cited improved collaboration in enforcing fisheries laws and regulations, which contributed to a more peaceful environment for both commercial and municipal fishers.

Salilig acknowledged the agency’s responsibility to improve the lives of fisherfolk, a sector he described as vital to the nation’s food security.

Speaking to BFAR colleagues after his appointment, Salilig said, “The fisheries sector is an important pillar in the food supply chain and our economy.”

“It is our responsibility at BFAR to support our fisherfolk and improve their quality of life by providing the necessary support and quality service,” Salilig said.  He began his career as a fishery technician for the Department of Agriculture in Region XII.

Salilig outlined his goals, which include boosting the aquaculture industry and production.

“Amid the growing challenges posed by climate change, I am determined to focus on strengthening the aquaculture industry and transitioning toward sustainable fisheries practices,” said Salilig.

He also stressed the importance of collaboration with other government agencies and academic institutions to enhance research and development efforts.

“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,” Salilig said.