Photo courtesy of BFAR-Ilocos.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Ilocos is rolling out fuel subsidy cards to support coastal fishermen amid rising fuel costs.
Each card carries Php 3,000 in assistance, aimed at helping fisherfolk sustain their operations and maintain stable food supply.
Ilocos Norte provincial fishery officer Vanessa Abegail Dagdagan-Alimbuyuguen confirmed that the first batch of Php 648,000 was released to 156 fisherfolk in Bangui, Currimao, Burgos, and Pasuquin earlier this week.
Alimbuyuguen said government agencies are strengthening aid programs to assist food producers and ensure affordable prices for consumers.
She added that more cards will be distributed to nine coastal municipalities in Ilocos Norte, covering 1,895 registered fishing vessels.
In Ilocos Sur, BFAR reported that 314 fishermen have received their fuel subsidy cards, with coordination ongoing with local governments to verify additional beneficiaries.
