DAET, Camarines Norte, (PIA) – The local government unit of Mercedes has established barangay vaccination sites and clustered areas to encourage individuals to be inoculated. 

During the Laging Handa Network Briefing News, Mercedes Mayor Dante “Boboy” Morales said he even goes around to monitor and ensure smooth implementation of the the mass vaccination activities. 

“We have vaccinated 26,665 individuals and we also have currently zero COVID case," he said.

Mercedes is a coastal town, known to be the fishing bowl of Bicol region.

Fishermen used to do “bulungan” or whispering as their method of selling fish at the port, but during the pandemic the LGU prohibited this marketing way, instead, they were required to use their cellphones or hand written notes to sell sell their catch.

The mayor also ordered authorities to ensure strict observance of minimum health standards in the port such as physical distancing, wearing of face mask and non-entry of unvaccinated individuals.

On illegal fishing, the LGU strengthened its "Bantay Dagat" program to run after illegal fishers in the municipal waters.

He said they have already apprehended 50 violators which include owners of trawls and “buli-buli”.

Morales also said they offer government assistance as an intervention to crackdown illegal fishing to inlcude the provision of seeds and fertilizers, and the conduct of farmer’s forum in partnership with the Department of Agriculture.

During “notheast monsoon” where there is strong gale, fishing is temporarily suspended that is why fishers are encouraged to go into alternative livelihood like planting of rice, coconut and vegetables.

He said the LGU also prioritize farm-to-market road projects to enable faster and easier accesibility for the delivery of farmers' produce in the market places.

Morales also mentioned the town's tourist destinations to inlcude the 7 islands or the Siete Pecados with white and fine sand similar to Boracay.

"One of the islands in the Siete Pecados is the Canimog which is also known as Crocodile Island. There is also an Infinity pool in Canimog Island which is visible during low tide," he added.

Mercedes also offers kayaking, trekking and camping while two of its barangays feature Hinipaan and Colasi falls.

The town also offer similar experience to a “Dampa” wherein tourists can buy seafoods like lapu-lapu, talakitok, shrimps and crabs at the port and have it grilled. Food courts and restaurants for tourists are available in the area, he said.

Other guest during the Network Briefing News was SK Federation Municipal President Rochelle B. Bernas who presented her initiatives on livelihood and the development of learning centers for the youth and students in town.

The Network Briefing was also supported by local co-anchor Station Manager Ferdinand Odi of 98.5 Mhz OK-FM, Camarines Norte. (RBManlangit-PIA5/Camarines Norte)