3 weeks ago
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IBA, Zambales — The provincial government of Zambales has found concrete solutions to sustain the livelihood of local fishermen in the face of continuing geopolitical tension at the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. said the provincial government will initially distribute P1.8 million worth of fish aggregating devices, locally known as "payao," to fisherfolk in Zambales as part of a larger P4.5-million fund earmarked to increase local fish harvest.
"We need tangible steps to help our people, even as we seek diplomatic remedies to solve the situation at the West Philippine Sea. For us, the welfare of local fishermen is a priority, as food security should likewise be a priority," said Ebdane.
The governor, who served as Defense secretary in 2007, said the payao project will also serve as a strategic measure to keep Zambales fishermen safe at sea while asserting ownership and control of waters within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Local fishermen used to have a bountiful catch at the contested Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc in the WPS, which lies just 241 nautical kilometers west of Zambales.
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However, this traditional fishing ground has been under de facto Chinese control since 2012.
Ebdane said that under the program, the provincial government of Zambales will provide 20 units of payao to qualified fisherfolk organizations in the province.
The governor said this will help guarantee an abundant catch, increase the local economy, and ensure sufficient fish supply in the locality.
The payao can be deployed within the 15-km boundary of municipal waters, but no less than 10-km from the shoreline.
"If the P4.5-million fund would be used completely for payaos, then we can come up with about 45 units of these fish aggregating devices," Ebdane said.
