More than 100 fisherfolk witnessed the turnover of a 62-footer fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) handline fishing boat and livelihood assistance led by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 1 on August 13, 2026, in Badoc, Ilocos Norte.
ýBFAR Regional Director Remely B. Lachica said the assistance aims to strengthen fisherfolk livelihoods and food security by improving fishing capacity.
ýThe 62-footer boat included six 15-footer FRP motorized catcher boats, 15 sets of tuna handline fishing gear, and training on boat operations, mechanics, fish handling, and catch reporting. BFAR also awarded two 24-foot motorized FRP fishing boats to beneficiaries from Badoc and Paoay, along with safety equipment.
ýFurthermore, the agency distributed 150,000 tilapia fingerlings to the LGU of Pinili and three cooking structures to salt producer groups in Badoc and Paoay. The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement for these livelihood interventions and the awarding of materials were conducted under the Development of Salt Industry Project.
ýThe turnover ceremony was attended by dignitaries and key officials, led by BFAR National Director Elizer S. Salilig and Regional Director Remely B. Lachica, together with officials from the Department of Agriculture-Region 1. Also present were 2nd Congressional District Representative Hon. Eugenio Angelo M. Barba, Ilocos Norte provincial officials, and representatives from concerned local government units.