(THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTEHRN SAMAR FACEBOOK)
TACLOBAN CITY– The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Eastern Visayas (BFAR-8) has turned over P42.7 million worth of fishing assets to strengthen the livelihood of fisherfolk associations in Northern Samar.
The assistance includes 62-footer fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) handline fishing boats, along with mother boats, pakura, and fishing gear distributed to four fisherfolk groups: the Brgy. Talolora CFLC Fisherfolks Association in Palapag, Mapanas Pacific Town Fisherfolk Association, Lapinig Deep Sea Fishing Association, and the Brgy. Mualbual Bangkulis Fisherfolk Association in Laoang.
The turnover is part of BFAR’s Tuna Development Program and Capacitating Municipal Fisherfolk Program, aimed at improving productivity and expanding livelihood opportunities in coastal communities.
BFAR-8 officer-in-charge Regional Director Dominador Maputol reminded beneficiaries to properly maintain the equipment to ensure the sustainability of the project.
The initiative was implemented in coordination with the local government units of Palapag, Mapanas, Laoang, and Lapinig, as well as the Provincial Government of Northern Samar.
BFAR-8 said the project is expected to generate around 160 metric tons of fish annually, valued at about P32 million, helping strengthen food security and the province’s fisheries sector.
Northern Samar, located along the Eastern Seaboard of Eastern Visayas, is known for its rich tuna and other high-value fish resources.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
