CAPIZ — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), in partnership with the Capiz provincial government through the Capiz Provincial Bantay Dagat, has launched an initiative to improve the livelihoods of 36 fishermen in the municipality of Pilar.
Capiz Gov. Fredenil H. Castro led the distribution of fish gill nets, locally known as lambat, during a ceremony at the Capiz Provincial Bantay Dagat headquarters in Barangay Balogo, Pilar.
The initiative forms part of the provincial government’s continuing efforts to support local fisheries while promoting sustainable and responsible fishing practices.
In his message, Gov. Castro expressed gratitude to all agencies and individuals who helped implement the program.
“This is a substantial help in improving the livelihoods of our fishermen while also protecting our rich marine resources, which are a divine blessing, through the use of proper fishing equipment,” Castro said.
He also reiterated his commitment to sustaining the program to ensure its long-term impact and success.
Lyndofer Beup, provincial Bantay Dagat coordinator, said the program specifically targets fishermen who have abandoned illegal fishing practices following the establishment of the Capiz Provincial Bantay Dagat.
“Some of the beneficiaries were previously involved in dynamite fishing, trawl fishing, and the use of fine mesh nets, which contributed to the depletion of juvenile fish stocks,” Beup explained.
Meanwhile, BFAR-Capiz spokesperson Lorelyn Ofalla said the beneficiaries received various fishing accessories, including floaters, sinkers, and nylon nets in sizes 30 and 150, which they will assemble for their fishing operations.
Ofalla added that the fishermen also surrendered their fine mesh nets used in illegal fishing as part of the gear-swapping program.
“The aim of this program is to reduce and eventually eliminate illegal fishing in the province by transforming former violators into compliant fishers,” she said.
The initiative underscores the collaboration between local government units and fisheries management authorities in restoring marine ecosystems while strengthening the economic stability of coastal communities dependent on fishing./PN
