City Launches Concrete Jackstone Barricades At Sea

by BENNY P. CORTES

It was a bright early morning at the junction of Barangay Punta Cogon, some nine kilometers northeast of Roxas City proper, Roxas City Mayor Vicente B. Bermejo accompanied by City Councilor Dennis Altobano with barangay officials, fisherfolks and personnel of the city agriculture office went to launch 1000 units of concrete jackstone barricades for dropping in project areas.

City Agriculturist Salvador Borda said the project is supported by the city government to protect and conserve the marine resources of the city waters such as "diwal" (Angel Wing), pi-os (capiz shells), nylon shells, and other species of fish.

Melinda M. Garrido, Coastal Resource Management coordinator, explained that the launching of the 100 units of jackstone structures during the Fish Conservation Week was meant to bring about widespread awareness and rally support for more intensified efforts to protect and conserve our coastal and fishery resources. She said, "this is in line with the city’s strategic direction as the city is popularly known as the Seafood Capital of the country."

Garrido pointed out that the installation of jackstone structures was a form of resource enhancement and serve as barricades to protect the near shore marine habitat and "padugmon" (area) for hook and line fisheries. The launching was timely as the months of October to March is spawning season and these jackstone barricades serve as shelter or sanctuary for fishes and shellfishes.

"Through this project, this will not only serve to protect and conserve our coastal and marine resources but it will also provide opportunities for fisherfolks to earn for their living through proper management of the resources in the project area by the four associations assigned to it", Mayor Bermejo pointed out.

Mayor Bermejo, in behalf of the city government, and the presidents of the four fisherfolk associations, have signed a Deed of Understanding for the proper management of the areas assigned to them. These associations are Nipa Small Fisherfolk Association headed by Ronilo Combate; Brgy. Cogon Dagat Amligan Consumers Cooperative headed by Melanie Elicana; Roxas City Diwal Divers Association based in Punta Cogon, headed by Rolando Dondonay; and Dagat Sa Isla Olotayan Sagupon Association based in Brgy. Olotayan, headed by Florentina Alimunsurin.

Mayor Bermejo assured, he will increase the number of units of concrete jackstone by 1,500 structures next year. Last year, 80 units of structures were delivered and dropped in project areas of Punta Cogon. In February this year, some 500 units were likewise launched. Other areas where these structures are delivered and dropped are Brgys. Cogon, Dumlog, Baybay, and Olotayan. /MP