The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has provided equipment and capacity-building programs worth P4.95 million to fisherfolk groups in Pag-asa Island, BFAR National Director Demosthenes Escoto revealed on Monday.
The fishing gear and post-harvest equipment for beneficiaries will be transported by BRP Francisco Dagohoy (MMOV 5002) from Puerto Princesa City to Pag-asa Island.
A multi-mission offshore civilian patrol vessel operated by the BFAR, BRP Francisco Dagohoy will embark on a two-day journey to Pag-asa Island starting Monday, June 12, coinciding with the 125th commemoration of Philippine Independence.
“This voyage, which aims to provide livelihood support to the residents and fisherfolk of Pag-asa Island, is one of our initiatives in accordance with the order of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to strengthen our support to the fisheries sector, as well as in far-flung communities,” Escoto said in a statement.
The BFAR official also expressed optimism that through the initiative, Filipino fisherfolk would be further equipped with tools and skills to increase their catch in the resource-rich waters.
Moreover, Escoto also recognized the members of the Philippine Coast Guard and other partner agencies who have been supporting the bureau’s livelihood initiatives for the fisherfolk in the West Philippine Sea.
“We salute courageous public servants who have been working with the DA-BFAR. Through this collaboration, we are able to provide government aid to our fisherfolk in far-flung areas,” he added.
Aboard BRP Francisco Dagohoy are various fishing gears that include fish stalls, fish containers, plastic floaters, twines, lead sinker, and deep-sea payao, which will all be awarded to Palawan fisherfolk.
Also included are post-harvest equipment such as blast freezer, ice coolers, industrial weighing scales, crate storages, seawater flake ice machine, and a generator set.
BFAR said, “Beneficiaries will come from the Kalayaan Palawan Farmers and Fisherfolk Association, as well as the Spratlys Strong and Brave Women Association.”
Meanwhile, Escoto said the bureau is eyeing to provide additional livelihood inputs to Filipino fisherfolk in the West Philippine Sea and in adjacent areas to boost their production.