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Specifically designed for Batanes’ famously challenging waters particularly during monsoon season, the FRP vessel is equipped with advanced fishing gear and includes six pakuras or small catcher boats.
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has taken crucial steps to strengthen fishing communities in the country’s northernmost province, providing local fishers a new fishing vessel and fuel subsidies as oil prices remain at record highs.
During a visit in Batanes recently, BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig led the turnover of a 19-meter fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) vessel to fisherfolk of Sumnanga, Sabtang Island.
Specifically designed for Batanes’ famously challenging waters particularly during monsoon season, the FRP vessel is equipped with advanced fishing gear and includes six pakuras or small catcher boats.
The vessel was awarded to the Sumnanga-Nakanmuan Association to modernize their operations and ensure sustainable yield.
At the ceremony, attended by Batanes Vice Governor Jonathan Enrique Nanud Jr. and other local officials, Salilig emphasized that Sabtang was selected as a priority beneficiary of the high-capacity fishing vessel as the BFAR hopes to bolster local fisheries in the coastal area.
The bureau produced only 62 units of the vessel for distribution to fishing communities across the country.
BFAR also handed over to local fishermen 18 smaller fiberglass fishing boats, high quality fishing gear, and chiller tanks for post-harvest storage.
To offset fuel costs, Salilig also distributed P3,000 in fuel subsidies each to 198 fisherfolk from Basco, Ivana, Mahatao, Sabtang and Uyugan towns.
“Batanes has such a strong sea-going tradition. Ivatans have been going out to sea for generations, confronting high winds and strong waves. They deserve to have quality equipment to boost their yield. BFAR’s comprehensive support for Batanes fishermen symbolizes our commitment to improving their livelihood and ensuring their safety,” Salilig said.
He said BFAR’s mission in Batanes highlights the bureau’s goal of delivering inclusive modernization to fishing communities across the country. (Contributed story)
