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Top Photo: DOST Regional Director Rowen R. Gelonga delivers his keynote message on the various uses of weather data beyond early warning during extreme weather events, at the participatory workshop titled “Collaborative Development of Knowledge Product (KP) for Oyster Farming Community” held in Roxas City, Capiz.

Bottom Photo: Dr. Nathaniel T. Servando, PAGASA Administrator, discusses the agency’s weather services and the use of forecasts in oyster and mussel farming. The message was delivered during the workshop “Collaborative Development of Knowledge Product (KP) for Oyster Farming Community” in Roxas City, Capiz.

The province of Capiz, known as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines for its abundant oysters and mussels, is taking decisive steps to protect its thriving aquaculture industry. With climate change, red tide events, and erratic weather patterns posing increasing threats, local oyster and mussel growers are turning to innovative solutions to safeguard their livelihoods.

The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) and the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) conducted a participatory workshop entitled “Collaborative Development of Knowledge Product for Oyster Farming Community” in Roxas City, Capiz. This initiative, aimed at bridging the gap between scientific weather data and the practical knowledge of local growers, sought to empower them in making informed decisions for sustainable aquaculture. Held at San Antonio Resort, Roxas City, the two-day workshop brought together members of the Basiao Oyster Farmers Association (BOFA) from Ivisan and the Lonoy Agrarian Reform Cooperative (LARC) from Sapian, alongside staff from DOST-PAGASA, DA-BFAR, DOST VI, DOST Capiz, LGU Sapian, and LGU Ivisan.

PAGASA Division Chief Ana Liza S. Solis presents “Transforming Climate Information Services for a Climate-Resilient Agriculture and Health” during the participatory workshop in Roxas City, Capiz.

The workshop facilitated a crucial exchange of information, recognizing the invaluable experience of local growers in oyster and mussel cultivation. This knowledge was integrated with expert insights on oyster and mussel biology and their sensitivity to various weather conditions. Through dynamic discussions and interactive sessions, participants developed actionable risk management plans on mitigating the adverse effects of extreme weather events, which can significantly impact oyster and mussel cultivation. The activity highlighted the importance of learning to interpret weather forecasts to anticipate risks. It also demonstrated that weather forecasting extends beyond disaster management, but an innovative and vital tool in aquaculture.

The presence of PAGASA Administrator Dr. Nataniel T. Servando underscored the agency’s commitment to supporting the local aquaculture sector. Also in attendance were Regional Director Rowen R. Gelonga of DOST VI, Provincial Director Juafe M. Abareles of DOST Capiz, and Provincial Director Edwin Candelario B. Javier of BFAR Capiz. Their participation highlighted the collaborative efforts of government agencies in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of Capiz’s aquaculture industry.

By equipping oyster and mussel farmers with the tools to interpret weather data effectively, this initiative paves the way for a more informed and climate-resilient aquaculture sector in the province. (RVJDumpit, MCPielago/DOST Capiz)