The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Special Area for Agricultural Development (BFAR-SAAD) Program MIMAROPA delivered substantial livelihood support to 477 fisherfolk from seven fisherfolk associations (FAs) in Cajidiocan, Romblon, last June 5.
The distributed inputs included 67 units of marine engines, 5 generators, boat repair materials, gill net materials, fish aggregating devices (payao), fish traps, fishpond area improvement materials, 10,000 bangus fingerlings, farm inputs, and food processing equipment.
“We are deeply thankful for being included and benefiting from the SAAD program. For the first time, we have received interventions that significantly help our association,” says Isidro Gutierrez, President of the Samahan ng mga Mangingisda ng Danao.
During the program, Mayor Marvin Greggy Ramos highlighted the unique opportunity provided by the SAAD program, noting that out of Romblon's 17 municipalities, only 9, including Cajidiocan, are part of the initiative.
He encouraged members to spread awareness about the program, maintain accounts for sustainability, and take care of the projects. He underscored that this was the first instance of fisherfolk receiving funds ranging from Php 100,000 to Php 500,000.
Meanwhile, Provincial Fishery Office Officer-in-Charge, Luisito M. Manes, urged beneficiaries to use the interventions properly to increase their income and benefit their community. He discouraged selling the received equipment for profit, emphasizing that the equipment should be used by the recipients.
