Ocean Month gives hope to Capiz fisherfolks

By Alex A. Lumaque

Thursday 7th of June 2012

ROXAS CITY, Capiz, June 7 (PIA6) -- Presidential Proclamation No. 57 issued in 1999 mandates the observance of Ocean Month on May each year.

However, for members of Katunggan sa Culajao Salbaron Association (KACUSA) in the city’s Barangay Culajao who benefited from the celebration’s Lakad Alay sa Karagatan, the month-long activity is not only for May but gives them hope and livelihood in the succeeding months.

.The fisherfolk’s association received around P10,000 from the proceeds of the walk-for-a-cause donated by various national government agencies, businessmen, and different private and socio-civic organizations.

KACUSA is helping concerned local government authorities in maintaining the 4.6-hectare Culajao Mangrove Ecological Park which was established in 2006.

“Your financial aid will be utilized in the construction of the 220 linear meter catwalk,” said KACUSA President Elisandra Almeida in Hiligaynon.

The catwalk, usually made of bamboo, is a pathway that connects the service area to the treehouses and other structures in the park.

Almeida added that the association was already earning from the tourists and visitors until its service area and all the facilities were burned down in 2010.

She also thanked the private sectors as well as the City and Provincial Agriculture Offices who helped them recover from the fire incident which stalled their livelihood opportunities.

The ecopark, located about three kilometers from here, is now home to 19 mangrove tree species and seven kinds of birds, 23 shellfishes, 10 molluscs, seven fish, and eight insects.

It is best for educational tours, family outings, and group fellowships. (JCM/AAL-PIA 6, Capiz)