Ilocos Norte fisherfolk receive fishing boat, livelihood assistance

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MANILA, Philippines — More than 100 fisherfolk witnessed the turnover of a 62-footer Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) handline fishing boat and livelihood assistance led by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 1 recently at Badoc, Ilocos Norte.

BFAR Regional Director Remely Lachica said the assistance aims to strengthen fisherfolk livelihoods and food security by improving fishing capacity.

The 62-footer boat included six 15-footer FRP motorized catcher boats, 15 sets of tuna handline fishing gear, and training on boat operations, mechanics, fish handling, and catch reporting. BFAR also awarded two 24-footer FRP motorized fishing boats to beneficiaries from Badoc and Paoay, plus safety equipment.

Furthermore, the agency distributed 150,000 tilapia fingerlings to the LGU of Pinili and three cooking structures to salt producer groups in Badoc and Paoay. A signing of Memorandum of Agreement for these livelihood interventions and awarding materials were conducted under the Development of Salt Industry Project.

The turnover ceremony was attended by dignitaries and key officials, led by BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig and Regional Director Lachica, together with officials from the Department of Agriculture-Region 1. Also present were Rep. Eugenio Angelo Barba (2nd District, Ilocos Norte), Ilocos Norte provincial officials, and representatives from concerned local government units. (Contributed story)