The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) program, continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering coastal communities and strengthening the livelihoods of fisherfolk. In January 2025, various fisherfolk associations across the Bicol Region were provided with essential equipment and resources aimed at enhancing their productivity and ensuring the sustainability of their operations.
On January 8, 2025, the Sikap Parapangki Association received substantial support to enhance their livelihood activities. Twenty (20) units of 7.5-horsepower marine engines, with a total value of PHP 170,000, were distributed to complement the bancas previously provided to them in 2024.
On the same date, Team Camaligan Hanapbuhay, another group of beneficiaries under the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) program, was provided with critical equipment to support their operations. The distributed items included 40 life jackets, 20 solar lights, and one (1) marine engine, amounting to PHP 116,500.
On January 10, 2024, the Fisherfolk Association of Libmanan, Camarines Sur, was granted 22 units of 22-foot bancas, with an aggregate value of PHP 868,000.
BFAR, through the SAAD program, also extended its assistance to the province of Camarines Norte. Beneficiaries from the municipalities of Capalonga and Sta. Elena were provided with two (2) motorized fiberglass boats, complete with accessories, amounting to PHP 291,400. These boats are expected to significantly improve the efficiency of feeding and harvesting operations in their milkfish (bangus) farming enterprises.
“We are deeply grateful for this support, as the boats will significantly enhance our ability to manage our milkfish farming projects,†expressed one of the recipients.
Meanwhile, in Barcelona, Sorsogon, the Poblacion Fisherfolk Association (PFA) received 25 non-motorized canoe-type boats, locally referred to as casco, valued at PHP 875,000. This additional fleet increases their total number of “casco†to 46, including 21 units received in 2023.
The members of the PFA expressed their gratitude for the provision, noting the significant improvements it has brought to their fishing activities. The enhanced fleet has enabled the association to accumulate PHP 38,000 in their GSAC savings account while maintaining PHP 8,500 in cash reserves. These financial resources have positioned the group to undertake future livelihood projects, such as tilapia aquaculture, planned for implementation in 2025.
The continued assistance extended to fisherfolk associations underscores the collaborative efforts of both local and national agencies in empowering fishing communities. Such initiatives contribute meaningfully to ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the fisheries sector in the region.