BFAR-7 to launch “Build-A-Boat” program

CEBU, Philippines - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-7 is  set to launch a “Build-A-Boat” program today which aims to assist in the rehabilitation of the livelihood of the fisherfolks affected by super typhoon Yolanda.

BFAR-7 information officer Alma Saavedra said that 10,000 bancas will be given to identified fisherfolks in the Visayas.

An initial of 193 pump boat engines (5.5 horse power) with fishing accessories (nets, sinkers, floaters, etc.) will also be given to selected fisherfolks in the 13 towns of Northern Cebu.

 The identified local government units are the towns of Daanbantayan, San Remigio, Medellin,  Pilar, Tudela, Sta. Fe, Bantayan, Madridejos, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Poro, San Francisco and Bogo City.

“Priority are given to those fisherfolks that were registered under BFAR’s  Municipal Fisherfolk Registration or FishR,” said Saavedra.

FishR is aimed at developing a standardized registry system among municipal fisherfolks nationwide. It is anchored on Section 19 of Republic Act 8550, otherwise known as the Philippine Fisheries Code.

Initially, BFAR-7 said that  5,995  fisherfolks lost their livelihood in Cebu when  Yolanda struck most part of the Visayas area.

An initial 1,836 motorized bancas and 704 non-motorized bancas in Cebu were reportedly damaged by the super storm.

BFAR national director Azis Perez is expected to grace the event today.   (FREEMAN)