By Chris V. Panganiban
Inquirer Mindanao Bureau
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — Fifty fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) motorized boats were turned over to qualified fisherfolk in Dinagat Islands as part of the province’s 20th founding anniversary celebration on Monday, according to Dinagat Islands Public Information Office.
The boats were distributed under the “Bangka Ko, Gawa Ko” Project, implemented by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in partnership with the Provincial Government of Dinagat Islands.
The initiative was led by BFAR National Director Elizer S. Salilig and Regional Director Ominia B. Olama, in coordination with Gov. Nilo P. Demerey Jr.’s administration through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, headed by Provincial Agriculturist Rico B. Galinato.
The assistance aims to improve the livelihood of local fisherfolk and strengthen the province’s fisheries sector, a key contributor to its economy and food production.
Each of the 50 beneficiaries received an FRP motorized boat along with a marine engine and underwater fittings set.
The package consisted of 39 32-foot FRP motorized boats, valued at about P140,000 each, and 11 27-foot boats, valued at P130,000 each.
The boat distribution is part of continuing efforts by BFAR and the provincial government to provide fisherfolk with equipment that can improve their fishing capacity, increase production and strengthen household livelihoods.
