FROM FISHERFOLK SEAWEEDS PLANTER TO BFAR SEAWEEDS FOCAL

In a world where success stories are often associated with glamorous careers and overnight triumphs,
the tale of MR. Muhaimin S. Marahil stands as a testament to the power perseverance, dedication and
the pursuit of knowledge. Hailing from humble beginning, Muhainmin’s journey from a small coastal
village to becoming a distinguished scholar of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Fisheries
Scholarship Program (BFAR FSP) is an inspiration to all aspiring individuals.

The BFAR FSP stands for the Bureau of fisheries and Aquatic Resources Fisheries Scholarship Program.
It is the scholarship program offered by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), which is a
government agency responsible for the development, management, and conservation of the Philippines’
fisheries and aquatic resources. It is also a program that provides financial assistance to qualified
students pursuing degrees and courses related to fisheries and aquatic resources

Since the BFAR FSP aims to support and promote development and skills professionals in the field of
fisheries and aquatic sciences, recipients of the scholarship typically receive financial support to cover
tuition fees, and other related expenses during their studies. This program helps to ensure the
availability of knowledgeable individuals who can contribute to the sustainable management and
conservation of aquatic resources in our country.

Hailing from a modest background, Mr. Muhaimin S. Marahil who grew as a seaweed planter “mag-
aagal-agal” but now who is a famous BFAR-9 Seaweeds focal, he was an academic-achiever graduate of
Zamboanga College Marine Science and technology as Bachelor of Science in Aquaculture in a year of
2013 with his courage and with the support of Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Fisheries
Scholarship Program (BFAR FSP). Mr. Muhaimin came from fisherfolk family, who are typically a
seaweed planter and seashell gleaners. He is the oldest of the five Siblings, he also states that ‘’ mahirap
talaga ang responsibilidad ng isang breadwinner’’.

While challenges were aplenty, his fascination to study only grow stronger fueling his dreams of
making a difference in the conservation of our underwater world. So when he heard about the news
about the BFAR FSP thru information caravan, he took the opportunity despite of the challenges that he
encountered.

As Muhaimin’s academic journey progressed, he found a valuable ally in the Bureau of Fisheries and
Aquatic Resources Fisheries Scholarship Program. Recognizing his potential and commitment to marine
conservation, BFAR FSP provided Muhaimin with not only financial support but also mentorship and
access to a network of expert in the field this partnership became the catalyst that propelled Muhiamin
toward his dream of making a tangible difference’s in the marine conservation.

At present, Mr. Muhaimin S. Marahil is now the Officer-in-Charge of the Provincial Fishery office of
Zamboanga Sibugay, holding a plantilla item with Aquaculturist II. He started under a contract of service,
from a project base personal to a technical personal assisting the immediate supervisor in the
preparation of plans, programs and activities for the Provincial Level. As times goes on, as an
experiences molds him, he is now ready to face the challenges, plan recommended and implemented
Fishery project and that he truly acknowledge the effort of the BFAR though Fisheries Scholarship
Program.
“FSP as tool to educational advancement of fisherfolk children paves the way to open doors of broader
opportunities, which facilitate significant milestones for the lives of grantees as they strive to break off
poverty in their lineages. As the government continues to invest education to the youth, there is always
be a silver lining for the people and the country.”, Muhaimin said.

The success story of Mr. Muhaimin S. Marahil is a shining examples of the transformative power of
education, passion and collaboration. With the support of Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
Fisheries Scholarship Program, Muhaimin’s journey from a Zamboanga College Marine Science and
technology graduate to a marine conservation leader serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future for
our oceans. His relentless efforts remind us the every individual has the potential to make a meaningful
impact of the world, and with the right support, those impact can ripple far beyond our wildest dreams.

Mr. Muhaimin S. Marahil, Provincial Fishery Officer of Ipil, Zamboangay Sibugay Province and also the
current BFAR-9 seaweeds focal, is a living testament that BFAR-9 Fisheries Scholarship Program does not
just provide financial and educational support but it touches lives of fisherfolk children.