MABUHAY, Philippines — Fisherfolk in Zamboanga Sibugay recently received a 62-foot tuna handline fiberglass fishing boat from the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region IX. Officials say the project aims to help small-scale fishing communities reach offshore fishing grounds and improve their livelihoods.
BFAR turned over the vessel to the Subah-Batang Taguisian Fisherfolk Association on July 15 as part of its Capacitating Municipal Fisherfolk Program. This effort is one of the government’s ways to modernize municipal fisheries and help ensure food security.
BFAR officials say the larger vessel will help association members reach better fishing areas, make fishing safer, and support sustainable practices. The project also aims to increase fishing productivity and provide more livelihood opportunities for municipal fisherfolk.
BFAR Region IX, the Mabuhay local government and the fisherfolk association signed a memorandum of agreement before officially handing over and blessing the vessel.
BFAR said its support is not only in providing a fishing boat. The agency will also provide technical support, skills training, and capacity-building activities to ensure the vessel’s safe and proper use. They will assist the association with vessel registration, licensing, and other requirements.
Mayor Edreluisa O. Calonge urged recipients to treat the vessel as a shared community resource. She stressed the importance of managing it responsibly.
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