Minister for Economic Affairs YOKOTA Naobumi visits Lanao del Sur

On 7 July 2026, Minister for Economic Affairs YOKOTA Naobumi attended and delivered remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for the establishment of an aquaculture pond at Marawi City Jail. The project aims to equip Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) with skills and livelihood opportunities to support their reintegration into society upon their release. In his speech, Minister Yokota underscored the importance of promoting inclusive development that benefits all sectors.  
 
During the visit, Minister Yokota met with Lanao Del Sur Provincial Governor Mamintal "Bombit" Alonto Adiong Jr. and Municipality of Poona Bayabao Mayor Janimah L. Derogongan-Pandi to exchange views on the current situation and development of the agriculture and fishery sector in Lanao Del Sur.   
 
Minister Yokota also visited a fishing association in the Municipality of Poona Bayabao supported by the project. The initiative is strengthening the association’s long-term capacity through feed mill operations and management feed formulation, and entrepreneurship trainings. It is also supporting the establishment of a pilot-scale Halal-certified aquaculture feed mill, including the construction of a feed mill building and provision of related equipment. During the discussion with the association members, Minister Yokota encouraged the proper use and sustainability of the assistance provided. 
 
Fisheries remain a vital source of livelihood and income for thousands of small fisherfolk and fishing communities across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). To address challenges such as post-harvest losses, declining fish production, among others, the Government of Japan, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN), is implementing The Project for the Development of Sustainable Fishery Value Chain in BARMM. Running from 2025 to 2027, the project covers the provinces of Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Lanao del Sur, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi.