BFAR boosts fishers with P2M technology aid for poverty reduction

By Keren Anne Bernadas

THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Bicol awarded new livelihood interventions amounting to P2,318,635 to some fisher communities in the region under its Special Area for Agricultural Development program.

Modernized fishing technologies such as 21 units of fiberglass canoe-type boat “casco” with paddle worth P840,000 were distributed to Poblacion Fisherfolk Association (PFA) in October in Barcelona, Sorsogon.

On this, Felipe Teves Jr., president of PFA thanked the government for the technological assistance it has provided them. “Our organization has now been given attention with this livelihood support. This is a significant help to us not only as an organization but also as individual members who lack the means to acquire their own fishing and livelihood equipment,” he said.

In Gigmoto, Catanduanes, the Biong Aqua Marine Fisherfolk Association received four tons of seaweed propagules. This amounts to P140,000.

The Fisherfolk and Farmers Association from Goa, Camarines Sur in November received initial farm inputs for tilapia techno-demo project. A sum of 27 bags of pre-starter feeds, 187 bags of starter feeds, 352 bags of grower feeds and 187 bags of finisher feeds for a total of P893,035 were provided to the fishing community.

Additionally, Dapdap Sabang Mabuhay Fisherfolk Association of Bulusan, Sorsogon received 32 units of marine engine on November 13, equivalent to 445,600.00 pesos.

The said program of BFAR now on its second phase, aims to contribute to poverty reduction and improve the living conditions of vulnerable fisherfolk and their communities by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities. It strives to enhance food security and promote economic growth by likewise establishing community-based fishery enterprises. (PIA5/Camarines Sur)

DA-BFAR Bicol conducts distribution of livelihood projects to fisherfolk communities in the Bicol region from October to November. All photos are courtesy of BFAR Bikol Facebook page