THE transformation of the local seaweed industry is becoming the centerpiece of a new peace and development strategy in the Bangsamoro region.

Through the Seaweed Economic Assistance and Government Initiative for Tawi-Tawi (SEAGIFT), the national government is betting on the humble seaweed farmer to anchor stability in one of the country’s most isolated areas.

Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo Jr. led the ceremonial turnover Wednesday at Bongao Port, delivering a message from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the local growers. He emphasized that the program reflects a commitment to delivering progress to geographically isolated and conflict-affected communities.

GOVERNMENT CONVERGENCE. Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo Jr. (left) arrives in Tawi-Tawi to coordinate the SEAGIFT program, a convergence initiative involving the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU). Photo courtesy of SAP

A platform for peace

In a speech before seaweed farmers and local officials, Lagdameo framed the industry as more than just a source of income.

“Seaweed farming has sustained households, supported local economies, and provided a dignified source of income across our island communities. Strengthening this industry is not simply an economic intervention — it is a peace-and-development strategy,” Lagdameo said.

He noted that stable livelihoods are the foundation for stronger families and better access to education and health. By bolstering these sectors, the government aims to enhance community resilience against regional challenges.

Closing the gaps

SEAGIFT is a collaborative effort between the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, and the Tawi-Tawi provincial government. The Office of the Special Assistant to the President coordinates the national support.

The program targets long-standing hurdles for farmers, including:

  • Limited access to quality planting materials.
  • A lack of post-harvest facilities.
  • Insufficient financing and skill gaps.
  • Weak market links.

“Development becomes real when it reaches the shoreline communities that feed the nation,” Lagdameo said, adding that the administration will continue to link national resources to the aspirations of Mindanao’s island provinces.

The event concluded with the distribution of production tools and livelihood support to organized seaweed growers. Local leaders said the move is a vital step toward establishing Tawi-Tawi as the “seaweed capital” of the Philippines.