PROJECT LAYAG-WPS LAUNCHED BY BFAR, HELPING FISHERMEN’S

Sailing of fishermen in the West Philippine Sea (Photo courtesy of Joan Bondoc/Philippine News Agency)

Fishermen showed off their bountiful catch in the West Philippine Sea in conjunction with the BFAR's formal launch of “Project Layag-WPS”. It aims to give more aid to fishermen in the West Philippine Sea. This project will provide fishermen with bigger and more durable boats and fishing gear to sail farther.

From Zubic Zambales, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) personnel set sail together with the Filipino fishermen, towards the fishing grounds in the West Philippine Sea. Tons of fish were caught by them, 33 nautical miles from the shores to the fishing ground.

BFAR launched the "Project Layag-WPS" where they distributed up to P60 million worth of large boats, paddles, and other fishing gears to fishermen in Zambales. According to the PSA data, the number of fish caught in WPS has increased this past year, it is possible that government aid, good weather, and the increase in fishing boats in WPS have helped.

The BFAR responded when a Chinese publication released that “payaw” are dangerous to the marine environment. This “payaw” is a passive gear, and environmentally friendly.”

The BFAR further said that they are not swayed by any tension in the WPS because their mandate is to help uplift the lives of Filipino fishermen. Government officials assured the continued vigilance of the safety and livelihood of the fishermen.

The project will also have a regional launch in other provinces such as Mindoro where fishermen will also receive assistance such as boats and other fishing gear.

Source: Philippine Star

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