The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MAFAR–BARMM) conducted a benchmarking activity with the Department of Agriculture–National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA–NFRDI) on January 27, 2026, at the NFRDI Conference Room in Quezon City, to explore potential collaboration in fisheries research and policy development.

MAFAR–BARMM delegation was led by Director General for Fisheries Services Pendatun Patarasa, together with key officials and staff from the Fisheries Research Division. DA–NFRDI, meanwhile, was headed by Officer-in-Charge and Chief of the Finance and Administrative Division Ma. Salvacion Ferrer, with representatives from various technical and administrative divisions.

During the benchmarking session, NFRDI presented the institute’s mandate, vision and mission, and flagship fisheries research and development programs. This was followed by MAFAR–BARMM’s presentation on its fisheries mandate and priority areas for collaboration, which include technical and scientific support; capacity building and human resource development; research planning and program development; data, information, and knowledge management; infrastructure, equipment, and logistics; and policy and institutional support. Discussions particularly highlighted seaweed research, given the Bangsamoro region’s role as a major producer in the country.

In his opening remarks, Director General Patarasa noted that the establishment of BARMM in 2019 led to the disruption of some institutional linkages, including the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP), which the region later implemented as the Regional Stock Assessment Program (RSAP). This resulted in data gaps for approximately two to three years.

“That is why we want to reconnect through the ‘power of convergence,’ as the advertisement puts it. We recognize the vital role of the national government and NFRDI in helping BARMM fulfill its mandate, ensure food security, and improve the living conditions of the Bangsamoro people,” Patarasa said.

MAFAR–BARMM officials expressed appreciation for NFRDI’s warm reception and the valuable insights shared during the benchmarking activity. They noted that lessons gained from the engagement will help guide the development of responsive fisheries research programs and policies tailored to the needs of the Bangsamoro region.

Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration, underscoring the importance of research-driven policies in promoting food security, livelihood development, and the long-term sustainability of the country’s fisheries sector. ### (Cyrenes Moncawe)