Calinog: The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) are embarking on a pilot tilapia livelihood initiative within the 500-hectare reservoir of the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project Stage II (JRMP II) in Calinog, Iloilo. This endeavor aims to explore the viability of tilapia farming in the region as part of a broader livelihood component tied to the dam project.
According to Philippines News Agency, NIA Western Visayas Institutional Division officer-in-charge Steve Cordero announced that BFAR is committing PHP1 million towards the project. This funding will be used for constructing a floating fish cage and acquiring 50,000 tilapia fingerlings, which are set to be introduced into the reservoir on Friday. The project will be overseen by the relocated indigenous peoples (IP) homeowners' association.
Cordero emphasized that the project is in its trial phase to assess if tilapia can thrive in the local water conditions. Success could lead to further livelihood projects for IP beneficiaries, as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has shown interest in supporting future initiatives. Cordero noted that this trial is separate from the commitments made to the affected IPs, focusing on learning best practices and improving fish cage management.
The livelihood program will allocate approximately five percent of the reservoir for inland fisheries, providing additional income opportunities for stakeholders. In May, a team from BFAR in Mindanao visited Iloilo to assess the reservoir, identify suitable fish species, and evaluate feasible inland fishery modalities.
The JRMP II, with a funding of PHP25.65 billion, stands as the largest irrigation development project in Iloilo. NIA-6 Regional Manager and JRMP II Project Manager Engr. Jonel Borres reported that the project is nearing completion, with physical progress at 86.16 percent as of the end of June. The infrastructure civil works are scheduled for completion by June 2027, with all project aspects set to conclude by December 2027. The project is expected to be fully operational by 2028.
Besides irrigation, the JRMP II project promises additional benefits such as 6.6 megawatts of hydroelectric power, bulk water supply, eco-cultural tourism, flood mitigation, and employment opportunities for the local population.
