Local initiatives spearheaded by the Capiz Provincial Government-Provincial Agriculturist Office (CPG-OPA)  in partnership with the the Department of Science and Technology VI, through the Capiz Provincial Science and Technology Office, introduced innovative aquaculture practices to fisherfolks in Panay, Capiz through the conduct of training on Single Oyster Production and Longline Culture of Mussel.

The activity was part of the project entitled, “Technology Adoption of Single Oyster and Longline Culture of Mussel in Brgy. Buntod and Brgy. Agojo, Panay, Capiz” which started this year.

Series of lectures were conducted by experts from the University of the Philippines-Visayas and Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC). Among topics highlighted were the importance of oysters and mussels in the aquaculture industry, environment friendly methods of culture and the various opportunities of these shellfish in the market. It was also discussed that the continued traditional practices such as staking hastens the degradation of the environment which can result in poor water and shellfish quality.

A hands-on demonstration included the construction of spat collectors for single oysters and the development of a longline culture system for mussel production. This allowed participants to gain firsthand experience and practical skills with these two existing sustainable technologies.

The activity was designed to empower the beneficiaries with advanced aquaculture technologies, promoting sustainable practices and enhancing productivity in oyster and mussel cultivation in the region.