AKLAN – A total of 898 fisherfolk from four municipalities in Aklan received cash assistance under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk Program (PAFFP), reinforcing the national government’s support for the fisheries sector amid continuing economic challenges.
The distribution, facilitated by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office VI (DA-BFAR 6), was conducted from May 26 to 29, 2026.
Among the beneficiary localities, the Municipality of Batan recorded the highest number of recipients with 418 fisherfolk. It was followed by Numancia with 180 beneficiaries, Altavas with 178, and Tangalan with 122.
The cash assistance aims to provide immediate financial relief to small-scale fisherfolk affected by rising living costs, market uncertainties, and other economic pressures.
The distribution activities were spearheaded by BFAR’s Provincial Fisheries Office in Aklan in coordination with the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist and the respective local government units.
Municipal mayors, agriculturists, and other local officials attended the distribution activities to ensure the orderly and efficient release of assistance.
BFAR said an additional 1,930 fisherfolk from the municipalities of Buruanga, Ibajay, Makato, Malay, New Washington, Nabas, and Kalibo are scheduled to receive their cash assistance from June 2 until the first week of July.
Once completed, the program is expected to benefit a total of 2,828 fisherfolk across Aklan.
The PAFFP was launched to provide direct support to farmers and fisherfolk affected by various economic and environmental challenges. The program seeks to help beneficiaries sustain their livelihoods, support their families, and continue contributing to local food production.
Government officials said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening the agriculture and fisheries sectors while enhancing food security and economic resilience in local communities./PN
