PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — Seaweed growers across southern Palawan received a fresh infusion of equipment and planting materials from July 20 to 22, 2026, as the provincial government rolled out the second batch of its KANEGOSYOPA livelihood program. The initiative aims to boost production and stabilize incomes for coastal communities.
A Province‑Wide Push for Seaweed Growers
The Livelihood Project Management Unit (LPMU), under Governor Amy Roa Alvarez, led the distribution under the PALAWAN+PLUS Development Agenda. The program targets small fisherfolk associations that depend on seaweed as their primary source of income. The government is committed to making the sector more resilient and productive.
The Provincial Agriculture Office, headed by Engr. Reniel Z. Rocaberte, complemented the livelihood kits with agricultural inputs. This ensures that families engaged in both fishing and small‑scale farming receive holistic support. The coordinated effort reflects the province’s strategy to uplift rural livelihoods through direct intervention.
Equipment, Seedlings, and More Delivered
In Rizal and Bataraza, three fisherfolk associations received seaweed farming tools and equipment. The Pag‑Asa Taburi, Tabud Mandaragat, and Panagnaan Taratak associations were the primary recipients. Each group was given items tailored to expand their cultivation capacity.
Meanwhile, the Sungan‑Sungan Fisherfolks Association in Sofronio Española and the Sea Club Farm Association in Quezon received high‑quality seaweed propagules. These seedlings are vital for starting new planting cycles and increasing overall yield. The provision of planting stock ensures that production does not stall after harvest.
Four Towns, Five Associations Benefit
The distribution spanned four municipalities: Rizal, Bataraza, Sofronio Española, and Quezon. Local chief executives, including Mayors Norman Ong, Al‑Shariff Ibba, Lily Torrico, and Abner Rafael Tesorio, supported the activities. Their involvement signals strong municipal backing for the provincial program.
LPMU Program Manager Roque S. Dela Peña oversaw the operations, while the General Services Office inspected the distributed materials. The careful planning ensured that each association received functional and durable equipment. The personal presence of local leaders boosted the morale of the beneficiaries.
Partnerships Amplify Impact
Coca‑Cola Philippines contributed empty plastic bottles that were repurposed as eco‑friendly floaters for seaweed lines. This public‑private partnership demonstrates how corporate sustainability initiatives can directly benefit small‑scale producers. The simple innovation reduces costs and promotes recycling.
The associations expressed deep gratitude for the continued government support. For many members, the additional inputs mean they can plant larger areas and expect better harvests. The program transforms seaweed farming from a subsistence activity into a viable enterprise capable of supporting entire families.
Sustainable Livelihood for Coastal Communities
The KANEGOSYOPA initiative is part of Governor Alvarez’s broader CareGov Framework, which prioritizes economic empowerment of marginalized sectors. By investing in the seaweed industry, the province leverages its natural resources while addressing poverty. The second batch of aid confirms a long‑term commitment rather than a one‑time dole‑out.
