By Trixie Joy B. Manalili/PIA 3
TARLAC CITY — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) distributed a total of 400 kilograms of milkfish to four people’s organizations in Tarlac.
The Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Mamamayan ng Purok Pag-asa (SANMAPA), Lubigan Farmers Association, and David Rural Improvement Club Women’s Association from San Jose town; and Sipag at Tiyaga Anao Vendors Association Incorporated from Anao town each received 100 kilograms of milkfish under the Seafood KADIWA Grant Program.
BFAR Regional Director Wilfredo Cruz stressed that the program aims to provide local fisherfolk groups with crucial start-up capital in the form of fresh fish.
“Unlike conventional financial assistance programs, BFAR’s approach is unique in its direct provision of fish stocks to beneficiaries, enabling them to leverage these resources in various ways, whether by selling them fresh, chilled, or processed,” Cruz explained.
He noted that the program will be replicated across the entire region to support fisherfolk, and to ensure a thriving and sustainable fisheries sector in Central Luzon.
“The allocation of bangus to these groups marks the beginning of a transformative journey for the local fishing communities, providing them with not only a vital source of income but also fostering economic resilience and sustainability,” the official pressed.
Meanwhile, SANMAPA President Mirriam Acosta thanked BFAR for the livelihood aid, adding that this is not the first time they received assistance from the agency.
“We are really grateful for the continued support of BFAR to our cooperative. We will use this capital to improve the livelihood of every member of SANMAPA,” she said.
Acosta shared that the earnings and profit of the milkfish business were deposited to the cooperative’s bank account to fund and sustain their business operations.
The Seafood KADIWA Grant Program addresses the financial gap among fisherfolk, and fosters sustainable development and prosperity within coastal communities.
