PASAY CITY – The FISHCORExhibit of Artworks: Raising Awareness on Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency Art Competition officially opened at the Museo ng Sining, GSIS, Pasay City, on May 28, 2025.

The exhibit showcases the creativity and advocacy of 11 regional participants from various Fisheries Management Areas (FMAs), particularly FMAs 6 and 9. It includes representatives from the Cordillera Administrative Region, National Capital Region, Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, and CARAGA Region.

As part of the Month of the Ocean celebration, the FISHCORExhibit emphasizes the role of art in raising awareness about coastal resiliency, sustainable fisheries, and the importance of community action against domestic waste which is a growing threat to marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

In a statement, DA-BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig highlighted how the FishCoRe Project collaborates with local communities to address the threat of waste pollution.

“While often hidden in plain sight, improperly managed household waste continues to silently and severely harm our coastal waters. These materials make their way from our homes to our rivers and seas, damaging habitats, threatening biodiversity, and affecting the livelihoods of our fishing communities. But rather than turning away from this harsh reality, the FishCoRe Project sought to confront it creatively through the power of art,” he said.

This year’s grand champion, Charles BJ Maaño from the CARAGA Region, won with his masterpiece titled “Hapag-kainan”. He shared how he drew inspiration from the dedication and hard work of the fisherfolk of Butuan City.

“Habang nangunguha ako ng nets, nakita ko ‘yung hard work and dedication nila. At the same time, kasama nila ‘yung mga pamilya nila, at ginagamit nila ang pangingisda para may maipakain hindi lang sa kanilang pamilya kundi pati na rin sa coastal communities,” he said.

Meanwhile, Julian Gabriel Trinidad’s “Sa Daloy ng Perlas” from the Cordillera Administrative Region, and Antonio Pacuan Jr.’s “Waves of Change: A Journey to Marine Restoration” from the National Capital Region won second and first runner up, respectively.

This initiative is part of the Philippine Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency (FishCoRe) Project, which aims to contribute to improved food security and strengthen the resilience of ecosystems and communities. By merging science, environmental advocacy, and creative expression, the exhibit calls on the public to protect marine resources and take action for a cleaner and healthier ocean.

The exhibit will run until May 29, 2025, and is open to the public.

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