QUEZON CITY, (PIA) –Thirty (30) registered Navoteño fisherfolk were awarded with 30-footer NavoBangka and fishing nets.
The fiberglass boats were equipped with 16-horsepower marine engine and underwater fittings.
“Many Navoteños depend on fishing for their livelihood. By giving them their own boats, we help ensure that they earn enough to support their family and sustain an improved quality of life,” Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, who awarded the fishermen said.
The lawmaker also encouraged the beneficiaries to register their boats with the City Agriculture Office.
“It is important to have your boats registered so you can avail benefits from BFAR [Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources] such as fuel subsidy,” he said.
Tiangco serves as vice chairperson of the Committee on Aquaculture and Fisheries Resources. He filed House Bill No. 2926 or the creation of the Manila Bay Management Council.
The NavoBangka-buhayan program was launched in 2018 to help indigent Navoteño fisherfolk gain sustainable livelihood. Beneficiaries are required to pass a drug test, and must maintain good moral standing.
Since its inception, the program has benefited around 330 Navoteño fisherfolk.
Also present during the turnover were Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – NCR Regional Director Noemi SB. Lanzuela. (navotas pio/pia-ncr)