Photo courtesy of the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental
MANILA, Philippines — Select fisherfolk in Negros Occidental received 30 20-foot fiberglass reinforced plastic boats and 132 boat repair material sets from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region VI.
According to the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental on Thursday, the recipients are from Sipalay, Victorias, Talisay, Bacolod, and San Carlos, and the towns of Binalbagan, E.B. Magalona, Hinoba-an, Cauayan, Hinigaran, and Ilog.
“The assistance is part of the Rehabilitation and Recovery Program of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region VI whose beneficiaries are victims of the recent typhoons that affected the fisherfolks and caused damage to their livelihood,” the provincial government said in a statement.
The boats are complete with engines and other accessories, while the boat repair materials are marine plywood, copper nails, marine epoxy, and marine paints, among others.
The turnover of the boats and boat materials was held on Wednesday. It was led by Governor Bong Lacson and BFAR Negros Occidental Marian Jill Abeto at the Panaad Park in Bacolod City.
Gov. Lacson expressed his gratitude to the fisherfolk sector for their contribution to the province’s food security. He also urged them to prioritize safety when there is a typhoon. — Mae Anne F. Bilolo, INQUIRER.net intern