Butuan city: The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the Caraga Region (BFAR-13) on Friday recognized its partners from the public and private sectors for their contributions to conserving fish and marine resources in the area.

According to Philippines News Agency, the recognition ceremony marked the end of the weeklong 62nd Fish Conservation Week, where the agency lauded entities including the Philippine News Agency for championing BFAR's initiatives. This year's theme, 'Pangisdaang Masagana' (Prosperous Fishing), underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in the realm of fish and marine conservation.

Local government units, government agencies, non-government organizations, and fisherfolk associations from across the region were among the awardees. BFAR-13 Director Omnia Olama emphasized the collective efforts required to achieve the vision of 'Pangisdaang Masagana', highlighting the roles of various stakeholders from Caraganon fisherfolk to local governments and industry partners.

In a significant gesture towards supporting local fishing communities, BFAR-13 distributed 40 units of 21-footer fiberglass motorized boats to various fisherfolk associations in the region. Valued at PHP3 million, each boat is equipped with a 15-horsepower Sumo engine, fishing gears, and tools. Among the beneficiaries was the Loreto Fisherfolk Association from the Manobo tribe in Agusan del Sur, which received eight fiberglass boats, aiding both their fishing activities and community transportation needs.

Romnick Bello, president of the Loreto Fisherfolk Association, expressed optimism about the impact of the new boats, noting that the enhanced equipment would facilitate fishing in broader areas and potentially increase their catch, thereby supporting the community's livelihood.