BFAR gives cash, food aid for fishermen in Bajo de Masinloc incident

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) gave cash aid and food packages on Friday to the fishermen who were involved in a maritime incident near Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea on Monday.

Aside from the P20,0000 cash assistance and the food packages, BFAR said that it will also provide a scholarship for the children of the three fishermen who died in the incident.

“Malalim po ang respeto namin sa mga mangingisda ng Pilipinas, na itinuturing naming mga bayani at kasangga ng pamahalaan para masigurong may sapat na pagkain sa bansa,” BFAR national director Demosthenes Escoto said.

(We have a deep respect for Filipino fisherfolk, whom we regard as heroes and partners of the government to ensure that there is enough food for the country.)

The deceased were Benidecto Olandria, Dexter Laudencia, and Romeo Mejico Jr.

Meanwhile, the 11 other survivors of the incident received P2,000 cash aid each and food packs as well.

The BFAR said that it would also repair the boat that capsized during the incident and will provide a new boat to assist them in their livelihood.

On Monday, the crude oil tanker Pacific Anna rammed their fishing boat. An investigation has been opened by the Department of Foreign Affairs to determine the deaths of the four fishermen.

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