Malacañang has launched a program on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, aimed at elevating the local seaweed industry in Tawi-Tawi and transforming it into a cornerstone of peacebuilding and inclusive development.

The program Seaweed Economic Assistance and Government Initiative for Tawi-Tawi (SEAGIFT) is designed to address the challenges in the seaweed sector, including limited access to quality planting materials, insufficient post-harvest facilities, financing constraints, skills gaps, and weak market linkages.

Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo led the rollout in a ceremonial turnover at the Bongao Port in Barangay Poblacion.

Lagdameo said the initiative underscores the administration’s resolve to deliver tangible development to geographically isolated and conflict-infested areas.

During the program, Lagdameo told seaweed farmers and local officials that the government sees seaweed farming not just as a livelihood, but as a strategic tool for sustaining stability in the Bangsamoro region.

“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.

Lagdameo added that stable livelihoods contribute to stronger families, improved access to education and health services, and more resilient communities.

“We envision a Tawi-Tawi where the seaweed industry goes beyond raw production and becomes a driver of value-adding, enterprise development, and job creation - especially for women and the youth,” Lagdameo added.

The presidential aide assured beneficiaries that the administration remains committed to preserving peace gains by ensuring economic opportunities reach communities at the grassroots level.

“Progress is lasting when it is built with unity of purpose and shared responsibility. This assistance is a recognition of your hard work and perseverance,” Lagdameo said.

SEAGIFT is a convergence initiative involving the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the Office of the President Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), and the Provincial Government of Tawi-Tawi, with the Office of the Special Assistant to the President (OSAP) coordinating national support with local priorities.

The program will be implemented in two phases. Phase 1 (2024-2026) centers on boosting production and strengthening capacities, backed by a P44 million allocation under BFAR’s Enhanced Philippine Seaweed Development Program while Phase 2 (2027-2029) will focus on industrial development, processing, and market integration, to be led by OPAPRU in coordination with OSAP and partner agencies.

The program ended with the turnover of production and agricultural inputs and livelihood assistance to organized seaweed growers, including boats, among others.