𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐞𝐟 𝐒𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐮𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐨, 𝐈𝐛𝐚𝐣𝐚𝐲 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟎 𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐬

Ibajay, Aklan | A total of 200 additional artificial reef units have been successfully deployed in the coastal waters of Bugtongbato, Ibajay, Aklan, further expanding the existing artificial reef site and strengthening ongoing efforts to restore marine habitats, enhance fisheries resources, and promote sustainable coastal resource management.

The additional deployment builds on the municipality’s existing artificial reef initiative in Bugtongbato. By expanding the reef site with 200 more units, the project aims to provide additional habitat, shelter, feeding, and breeding areas for fish and other marine organisms, while supporting the recovery and development of marine biodiversity in the area.

The project was undertaken through the collaborative efforts of the Provincial Government of Aklan headed by Gov. Jose Enrique “Joen” Miraflores thru the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist led by Engr. Alexys T. Apolonio, Local Government Unit of Ibajay headed by Mayor Jose Miguel Miraflores thru the Municipal Agriculture Office led by Joven Seville, Bantay Dagat members, Brgy. Bugtongbato Council headed by Brgy. Capt. Rustico Inguillo, fisherfolks and community stakeholders. The continued expansion of the artificial reef site reflects the collective commitment to protecting and rehabilitating the municipality’s coastal and marine resources.

The initiative is expected to contribute to the long-term enhancement of local fishery resources while supporting the livelihoods of communities that depend on healthy coastal ecosystems. Through sustained partnerships among government agencies, local communities, and other stakeholders, the municipality continues to invest in the protection and rehabilitation of its marine resources for present and future generations.

Photos sourced from Jose Enrique “Joen” Miraflores and ML Crisostomo