ZAMBOANGA, Philippines — Senatorial candidate Ben Tulfo yesterday warned traders who are taking advantage of marginal fishermen and farmers of seaweeds.
At a press conference, Tulfo urged his colleagues in media to be a part of a “watchdog” that monitors the movement of traders who bought seaweeds and fish from local fishermen.
Earlier, the Department of Transportation opened the Tigtabon Port in Zamboanga to hasten transport of fish and seaweeds from remote islands to the mainland.
In coordination with Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Tulfo gave assurance that his office in the Senate and his television program Bitag would protect small time fishermen and seaweed farmers from these unscrupulous traders.
Tulfo said his colleagues in media should help protect the people against corrupt, abusive and deceitful traders.
“I will make sure that the fisherfolk will not be abused, exploited, deceived and neglected. This will be part of my legislative agenda. I will not make a promise, I will just do it,” he said.