TACLOBAN CITY – Severe Tropical Storm ‘Kristine’ delivered a devastating blow to the livelihoods of thousands of municipal fisherfolk in Eastern Visayas in October 2024, causing extensive damage to aquafarms, fishing vessels, and post-harvest facilities.

Based on the report from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources(BFAR-8), damage on the fishery in the region due to Kristine has reached to P16 million.

The agency reported that about 2,000 fisherfolk were affected due to the storm with the destruction of 1,442 fishing boats and 1,376 fishing gears.

About 55 hectares of fishponds, 11 fish pens, and 404 fish cages as well as 365 hectares of seaweed farms were also damaged due to Kristine, BFAR said on its report.

Leyte province recorded the highest number of affected fisherfolk (1,269), with the municipalities of Lapinig and Laoang in Northern Samar, and Salcedo in Eastern Samar, among the hardest-hit.

The BFAR said that Leyte and Samar provinces sustained an estimated P1.7 million in damages.

In response, BFAR 8 is conducting donation drives to support affected areas in Luzon and consolidating damage assessments for potential funding proposals.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY – Over the past three years, the provincial government of Northern Samar has successfully funded the construction of school buildings, particularly in remote and underserved communities across the province.

This initiative, supported by the Special Education Fund (SEF), aims to complement the national government’s efforts to increase educational access and reduce barriers to learning.

Under Governor Edwin Ongchuan’s leadership, the provincial government is committed to ensuring that all Nortehanon children, regardless of location, have access to quality educational facilities that foster their potential and prepare them to become future leaders.
To date, 25 school buildings have been completed through provincial funding.

Some of these schools include Vinisitahan Elementary School in Brgy. Vinisitahan, San Antonio; Madrasah School Building and Francisco Rosales Sr. National High School in Catarman; Pambujan National High School Canjumadal Annex and the ALS Learning Hub “Balay ni Mano Emil” in Pambujan; Cabongaan Vocational School in Brgy. Cabongaan, Silvino Lobos; San Miguel National High School and Quirino Elementary School in Las Navas; Rombang Elementary School and Catigbian National High School in Laoang; Mapanas Central Elementary School in Mapanas; Hitapian Elementary School and Osang Elementary School in Catubig under the Barangay Development Program, with ongoing construction at Magtuad Elementary School and Roxas Elementary School in Catubig.

The single-story school buildings include basic amenities such as restrooms, green boards, and energy-efficient lighting to foster an optimal learning environment. Designed with accessibility in mind, the facilities feature ramps to accommodate students with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity for all learners.

Rombang Elementary school head Ma. Laurene Denura expressed gratitude for the province’s commitment to advancing education.

“Thank you, Governor Edwin Ongchuan, for your continued support and dedication to our children’s education. May your leadership bring more services and assistance to Northern Samar,” Denura said.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

TACLOBAN CITY – Maripipi Island’s selection as a stop for international cruise ships visiting the Philippines is not only a privilege but an honor, said Mayor Joseph Caingcoy of Maripipi, Biliran, who sees it as a gateway to growth and opportunity for the island municipality.

Maripipi has hosted two international cruise ships since joining the cruise tourism circuit: the Coral Adventurer in 2023 and the Coral Geographer this year, bringing foreign tourists keen on shore excursions and cultural immersion.

“This visit greatly promotes and markets our town to tourists, which will in turn boost arrivals and result in economic gains,” Mayor Caingcoy shared.

“If more tourists and investors come, this means development for our municipality, more job opportunities, and additional livelihood and income for our people.”

He noted that a key part of their development agenda is positioning Maripipi as a notable destination, both nationally and globally.

One of Maripipi’s preparations for the expected rise in tourism is the promotion of a homestay program to address the limited accommodations available on the island.

Currently, 11 homeowners have been trained in homestay management by the Department of Tourism in Eastern Visayas, with plans to expand the program to include all 13 barangays in Maripipi.

“Homestays are ideal for our island, as they allow tourists to immerse in the local way of life, traditions, and culture,” Mayor Caingcoy explained. “We’re focusing on improving and organizing our homestay program to enhance the visitor experience.”

Additionally, the local government is working to revitalize traditional crafts by encouraging youth engagement in nito weaving and pottery-making, skills predominantly held by the older generations.

“The younger generation is gradually moving away from these crafts, so we’re encouraging them to engage in pottery and weaving. We hope this sparks curiosity and appreciation for these art forms,” Caingcoy said.

During cruise visits, tourists are invited to participate in these traditional activities, meeting local artisans and visiting villages where nito weaving and pottery-making have been practiced for generations. Guests also explore Sambawan Island, one of Maripipi’s marine sanctuaries, renowned for its crescent-shaped beach, snorkeling spots, and scuba diving.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)