Japan supports sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and livelihood development in Lanao del Sur

On 19 October, 2026, First Secretary AKASAKA Hidenori attended and delivered his remarks at the turnover ceremony of the 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. The ceremony was also attended by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)-BARMM Regional Director Leonalyn Oloan, Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) Programme Assistant Representative Dulce Carandang, Marawi City Councilor Sihawi Lala, and several PDLs.  
 
During his visit to Lanao del Sur, Mr. Akasaka met with local government officials of Kapai to exchange views on the current situation and development prospects of the municipality’s agriculture and fisheries sectors. He also visited a local cooperative supported under the project and discussed  efforts to improve livelihood and strengthen community resilience with its members. The project supports the cooperative through capacity-building activities and assistance in the establishment and operation of a hatchery. It aims to ensure a reliable supply of fingerlings, improve fishpond productivity, create additional livelihood opportunities, and strengthen business and management capacities. It also envisions to develop a sustainable hatchery enterprise that contributes to local food security and economic development.
 
Then, on 20 October 2026, Mr. Akasaka also joined the opening of the enterprise development training among community-based organizations of the province and delivered a message. 

These initiatives form part of the Project for the Development of Sustainable Fishery Value Chain in BARMM, which aims to strengthen the productivity, sustainability, and resilience of fisheries and aquaculture-based livelihoods across the region. Running from 2025 to 2027, the project covers the provinces of Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Lanao del Sur, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi.