Successful tilapia harvest marks livelihood breakthrough in Aurora

Maria Aurora, Aurora – A successful community-led tilapia harvest in Barangay Bazal has demonstrated how government-supported initiatives can provide sustainable livelihood to grassroots organizations in this town.

The Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Magbubukid Association-Bazal, composed of local farmers and former conflict-affected residents, harvested hundreds of kilos of tilapia on 30 June, marking a milestone in military-assisted reintegration and livelihood development under the 91st Infantry Battalion’s Mobile Community Sustainment Support Program.

According to the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division of the Philippine Army, the project reflects how the unit goes beyond security operations by supporting livelihood efforts that benefit local farmers and former supporters of insurgent movements.

The tilapia aquaculture project, one of several initiatives supported by the 91st IB, is part of a broader campaign to transform vulnerable communities into productive and resilient areas free from insurgent influence.

The unit noted that many of the beneficiaries were once under the influence of communist terrorist groups and now have renewed purpose through stable, sustainable sources of income.

“Through close coordination with Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), local government units (LGUs), partner agencies, and civil society organizations, the 91st IB ensures that its whole-of-nation approach addresses not only security concerns but also the root causes of insurgency, such as poverty, isolation, and lack of opportunity,” the unit stated.

Under the leadership of Jeffran Soguilon, the Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Magbubukid Association-Bazal has become a model for post-conflict rural development, showing how unity, commitment, and inter-agency collaboration can transform at-risk communities.

“The successful tilapia harvest is more than just a livelihood triumph — it is a testament to the transformative power of peace, partnership, and perseverance,” the 91st IB added.