The Basilan Fisherfolks and Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BFFFMPC) is a leading agri-fisheries cooperative located in Samal Village, Maluso, Basilan, Philippines. Formed to empower marginalized fisherfolk and farmer communities in the region, the cooperative is a grassroots model for sustainable livelihoods, food security, and economic resilience in conflict-affected areas of Mindanao.
Company History and Background
Founded under the leadership of Benzar Y. Asula, BFFFMPC began as a small group of local farmers and fishermen aiming to formalize their community efforts into a cooperative framework. With the support of government agencies such as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and local LGUs, the cooperative has grown into a structured organization with commercial fisheries and agricultural operations.
Its mandate includes sustainable harvesting, value addition, and market linkage for both marine and agricultural products. The cooperative also plays a critical role in post-conflict economic rehabilitation in Basilan, offering livelihood to communities affected by displacement and instability.
Core Business and Offerings
BFFFMPC is engaged in a mix of production, processing, and distribution activities. Its major products and services include:
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Processed Fish Products:
- Bottled Sardines in oil or tomato sauce
- Frozen small pelagic fish (e.g., galunggong, tamban)
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Fresh & Frozen Fish Distribution:
- Aggregation and cold chain logistics of small pelagic catch for regional shipment
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Agri-Fishery Supply Chain Management:
- Sourcing from local fishers and farmers
- Coordination of harvest, cleaning, freezing, and storage
These products are distributed locally and through government-run food distribution programs across Mindanao and the Zamboanga Peninsula.
Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition
The cooperative’s core strengths include:
- Integrated community-based fisheries model, connecting fishermen directly with markets
- Inclusive business model that employs Muslim, Christian, and indigenous Yakan communities
- Participation in government-sponsored livelihood initiatives, including the Department of Agriculture and BFAR’s development programs
- Value-added processing of fish products, such as bottled sardines, contributing to shelf-stable food availability
Its strategic location in Basilan allows the cooperative to harness rich fishing grounds while addressing food distribution gaps in the region.
Financial and Commercial Insights
BFFFMPC is a mid-sized cooperative with operational revenues sourced from direct fish sales, bottled goods, and government program partnerships. Based on BFAR and regional DTI reports:
- Monthly Fish Handling Capacity: Up to 1.5 metric tons (via Oplan ISDA shipments)
- Primary Customers: Local public markets, institutional buyers, and government food relief networks
- Revenue Channels: Sale of bottled sardines, cold-chain fish logistics, and agricultural produce
Their focus on affordable, staple seafood aligns with food security goals in underserved areas.
Export and Shipment Data
As of 2024, BFFFMPC’s operations remain domestically focused. However, the cooperative has expressed readiness to scale up:
- Shipment Routes: Basilan to Zamboanga and other parts of Western Mindanao
- Participation: BFAR’s Oplan ISDA food shipment initiative
- Logistics: Uses government-assisted cold storage and reefers for perishable fish transport
Future opportunities include packaged sardines export to OFW communities and halal-certified food markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Target Markets
- Local public markets and households
- Government institutions and nutrition programs
- Low-income consumers in ARMM and Mindanao
- Potential international buyers for halal canned sardines
Capabilities and Infrastructure
The cooperative operates basic infrastructure and is part of regional agri-fisheries supply networks:
- Cold storage and ice plant support from BFAR
- Small-scale processing equipment for fish cleaning and bottling
- Local fisherfolk and farmer membership structure
- Ongoing partnerships with LGUs and provincial food programs
Certifications and Compliance
- Registered with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA)
- Recognized by the Department of Agriculture and BFAR
- Compliant with local food safety and hygiene regulations
- Participates in capacity-building for Halal and FDA processing compliance
Customer and Community Impact
BFFFMPC provides essential income and economic mobility for over 100 families in the province. It also strengthens the local food system by ensuring access to affordable protein sources in remote areas.
“We used to struggle with unstable fish prices and no market. The cooperative changed that by giving us a steady buyer and logistics support.” — Member Fisherman, Maluso
Major Achievements
- Featured under BFAR’s Oplan ISDA for 1.5 MT fish delivery to Zamboanga
- Participated in Mindanao-wide agri-fishery summits and cooperative showcases
- Sustained production of bottled sardines distributed across Basilan and nearby provinces
- Recognized as a community peace and livelihood enabler in the Bangsamoro region
The Basilan Fisherfolks and Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative stands as a vital link between marine bounty and food-insecure communities, driven by cooperative governance, cultural diversity, and sustainable livelihood practices.