The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), in partnership with the Cangmating Bible Seaweed Farmers’ Cooperative, launched the Negros Oriental’s first Seaweed Nursery Module. This is the newest climate change and livelihood eco-tourism project of NOCCI which primarily intends to stop illegal spearfishing activities in marine protected areas that is now becoming a serious threat to the sustainability of the booming dive tourism industry in the province of Negros Oriental by providing all illegal spearfishers with alternative livelihood.
The launching of the Seaweed Nursery Module, which was held at Brgy. Cangmating, Sibulan, was spearheaded by NOCCI President Edward Du and Bible Service Seaweed Marketing Cooperative Chairman Oscar Monzales, in partnership with NORDA, BFAR, DA, LGU-Sibulan, and LGU-Negros Oriental.
NOCCI Launches Seaweed Nursery to Boost Eco-Tourism
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), in collaboration with the Cangmating Bible Seaweed Farmers’ Cooperative, has launched the province’s first Seaweed Nursery Module. This initiative, which took place at Brgy. Cangmating in Sibulan, represents NOCCI’s latest climate change and livelihood eco-tourism project. The primary objective of this project is to provide alternative livelihoods for illegal spearfishers, thereby protecting marine protected areas and sustaining the booming dive tourism industry in Negros Oriental.
The ceremonial launch was spearheaded by NOCCI President Edward Du and Bible Service Seaweed Marketing Cooperative Chairman Oscar Monzales. The event also saw the participation of key stakeholders, including representatives from the Negros Oriental Dive Association (NORDA), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Agriculture (DA), and the local government units (LGUs) of Sibulan and Negros Oriental.
Edward Du highlighted the importance of the Seaweed Nursery Module in addressing the growing threat of illegal spearfishing to the province’s marine ecosystems. “This project is not only about providing a sustainable livelihood alternative but also about ensuring the long-term health of our marine protected areas. By supporting the seaweed farming industry, we are taking a proactive step towards sustainable development and environmental conservation,” Du stated during his opening remarks.
The Seaweed Nursery Module aims to cultivate high-quality seaweed that can be harvested and sold, providing a viable income source for former illegal spearfishers. This initiative is expected to have a significant positive impact on the local economy by creating jobs and promoting eco-tourism. The project aligns with NOCCI’s mission to foster economic growth while preserving the natural resources that are crucial to the region’s tourism industry.Chairman Oscar Monzales of the Bible Service Seaweed Marketing Cooperative expressed gratitude for the support from NOCCI and other partners. He emphasized the potential of seaweed farming as a sustainable and profitable venture for local communities. “Seaweed farming is an environmentally friendly activity that can thrive alongside our dive tourism industry. This nursery module will serve as a model for other coastal communities to replicate,” Monzales explained.
The partnership with NORDA, BFAR, DA, and the LGUs is instrumental in the success of the Seaweed Nursery Module. NORDA has been actively involved in promoting responsible diving practices and marine conservation. Their support ensures that the seaweed nursery complements ongoing efforts to protect the marine environment. BFAR and DA provide technical assistance and resources to optimize seaweed cultivation practices, while the LGUs offer logistical and administrative support.The launch event featured a demonstration of seaweed farming techniques, showcasing the methods used to cultivate and harvest seaweed. Participants were given a tour of the nursery module, which includes state-of-the-art facilities for seaweed propagation. The demonstration highlighted the ecological benefits of seaweed farming, such as carbon sequestration and habitat provision for marine life.
Local officials, community leaders, and residents attended the launch, expressing their support and optimism for the project. The event concluded with a commitment from all partners to continue working together to ensure the success and sustainability of the Seaweed Nursery Module.The Seaweed Nursery Module is expected to serve as a catalyst for broader environmental and economic initiatives in Negros Oriental. By providing a sustainable livelihood alternative, the project aims to reduce illegal spearfishing activities, protect marine biodiversity, and promote eco-tourism. This initiative exemplifies NOCCI’s dedication to integrating economic development with environmental stewardship.
The launch of the Seaweed Nursery Module marks a significant milestone in NOCCI’s efforts to enhance sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation in Negros Oriental. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, this project aims to create a harmonious balance between economic growth and ecological preservation, paving the way for a more sustainable future for the province of Negros Oriental.
