The Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) recently celebrated its 44^th Anniversary with this year’s theme “Padayon PFDA: Fostering Fishers in Changing Time”, August 11.

With the limitations brought by the pandemic and due to the strict implementation of health protocols particularly the observation of physical distancing, the PFDA held the first ever anniversary virtual program streamed live via PFDA official Facebook page, August 24.

During the program, Engr. Danilo Axalan, Technical Services Department Manager, provided updates on the status of the flagship projects for the rehabilitation of various PFDA-managed fish ports such as IFPC, LFPC, DFPC, NFPC, CFP, SFP and ZFPC.

Various PFDA programs were also highlighted such as the isDA ON THE GO, the PFDA's banner Corporate Social Responsibility Program, and RFPs initiatives on the prevention of COVID-19 disease like the regular disinfection activities of the Regional Fish Ports.

The ISO 9001:2015 certificate was also awarded to the PFDA – Central Office and Zamboanga Fish Port Complex (ZFPC) during the virtual program through a video presentation by Mr. Tristan Arwen Loveres, Managing Director - TUV Rheinland Philippines, Inc.

To date, 5 PFDA RFPs are now ISO 9001: 2015 certified including Navotas Fish Port Complex (NFPC), General Santos Fish Port Complex (GSFPC), Davao Fish Port Complex (DFPC), Lucena Fish Port Complex (LFPC), and Iloilo Fish Port Complex (IFPC) which received their certifications in 2018.

The PFDA also extended appreciations to all the frontliners in the medical field, service industry workers and all PFDA personnel for their contributions and services during the pandemic.

The month-long anniversary activities also included the launching of the newest in-house online program called PFDA Bulletin.

The virtual program also featured presentation on Service Loyalty Awardees.

 Various officials also delivered their anniversary messages such as Department of Agriculture Secretary William Dar and Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go.

Lastly, representatives from all Regional Fish Ports participated in the offering of a Solidary Prayer as part of the call of the PFDA for unity and cooperation amid the pandemic.