The Nabua Bicol Rivers Farmers and Fisherfolk Association concluded their final collection of invasive species on September 27, 2024, in San Isidro Inapatan, Nabua, Camarines Sur. The group gathered 42 kilos of invasive species, including janitor fish, bringing their total haul to 115 kilos across three rounds held on September 6, 13, and 27. The effort earned them a total of ₱5,750 in compensation.
The collection was conducted under the Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa (BASIL) program, which aims to manage invasive species in inland waters as part of efforts to conserve inland fisheries. Under the program, BFAR 5 compensates participants ₱50 per kilogram of invasive species gathered, with each fisherfolk paid based on their individual collection.
Some of the invasive species were processed as trash fish, while the rest were buried to prevent further reproduction. The disposal process was overseen by the Regional BASIL Coordinator, local government representatives, and barangay officials.
(Source: BFAR Bicol)