JORDAN, Guimaras – To help uplift the living conditions of local fishermen, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 6 distributed boat engines to 150 beneficiaries from 16 barangays in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras.
DOLE-6 director Cyril Ticao said it was a step to modernize – and a long-term solution to – the livelihood of marginalized fishermen.
The P3-million worth of engines generated smiles from the fisherfolk and gave them hope.
“We will not have to endure anymore the unreliable and old engines. Now, we have the confidence to venture farther and catch more fish for our families,” said fisherman Celestiano Ganza Jr.
Ganza was one of the 8,000 registered fishermen of Nueva Valencia which, according to municipal officials, had the longest coastal line (102 kilometers) among the five municipalities of Guimaras. For years they have been using wooden paddles or persevere with the malfunctioning boat engines.
“Use wisely the opportunity given to you. DOLE is willing to help and if you value the project, we can facilitate for more assistance in the future,” Director Ticao told the fishermen.
Ganza urged his fellow beneficiaries to value the assistance they received.
“Let us take care of the assistance provided by DOLE. It is a great opportunity and a big help. On our own, we cannot afford to buy new engines,” he said./PN
