Flourishing Mangroves in Garchitorena.Left photos:In 2008 to 2009, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Office No. 5 in partnership with the Local Government Unitof Garchitorenaplanteda total of 25,000 mangrove propagules in a10-hectare area of the coastal barangay of Harrison. BFAR Regional Director Dennis V. Del Socorro and Fisherfolk Regional Director Marco Visperas of Aroroy, Masbate led the mangrove planting last May 2009 during the celebration of Month of the Ocean and Fisherfolk’s Month together with BFAR and LGU employees, fisherfolk, Barangay FARMC, barangay officials and elementary pupils.
Right photos:After almost four years, the same area was assessed on March 1, 2012 by BFAR, LGU and fisherfolk which is now teeming with fully grown mangroves. The area is now qualified for aquaculture projects such as aquasilviculture or the culture of mudcrabs (alimango) without disturbing or cutting the mangroves.(JTB/kathilotin)