One hundred motorized fiberglass boats, complete with fishing gear, were distributed to fishermen from nine coastal communities in Zambales on Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024, providing a lifeline for their livelihoods and families
IBA, Zambales, Philippines — Small-scale fishermen in nine coastal communities in Zambales were given 100 motorized fiberglass boats and fishing gear in a turnover ceremony held on Thursday, December 12, in Sitio Balintabog, Barangay Amungan in this town.
Tingog Partylist Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez and Zambales 2nd District Rep. Doris “Bing” Maniquiz led the distribution of the 22-foot fiberglass boats, each equipped with a 16-horsepower engine.
Besides the boats, the beneficiaries also received fishing gear, rice, and food packs to support their families.
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The recipients came from the municipalities of Iba, San Antonio, San Narciso, San Felipe, Botolan, Masinloc, Palauig, Candelaria, and Santa Cruz and were chosen based on their need, particularly those who do not own fishing boats.
“This initiative is aimed at improving the livelihood of our fishermen and providing better opportunities for their families,” Maniquiz said.
She also revealed plans to distribute more boats in the future to reach other underserved fishing communities in the province.
The program underscores the commitment of local leaders to support the fishing industry, which is a vital source of livelihood for many residents in Zambales.