Manila: The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) announced its intention to secure regular positions for 50% of its West Philippine Sea (WPS) frontliners in the upcoming year.

According to Philippines News Agency, this initiative follows the recent distribution of Christmas gift kits to the frontliners by BFAR and Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) retirees. In an impromptu interview, BFAR Spokesperson Nazario Briguera emphasized the importance of providing plantilla items to half of their WPS frontliners, stating, "that's the support we want to give them, the plantilla positions, to our personnel next year."

Briguera highlighted that while insurance is currently required for protection under the Contract of Service (COS), permanent positions would offer more extensive benefits. The sought-after positions encompass technical professionals such as marine researchers, engineers, and crew members. Briguera noted, "The BFAR is manned, especially the research vessels, which is a civilian vessel needing technical manpower."

Some WPS frontliners have expressed their hopes for regularization, which would grant them the same benefits as their colleagues. Chief Engineer Armilo Pagliawan of M/V DA-BFAR pointed out the higher liabilities associated with the COS status, given the safety and security risks in the WPS.

BRP Francisco Dagohoy (MMOV 5002) Shipmaster Captain Perlito Pascua also stressed the importance of plantilla items, saying, "Of course, we are glad, it's a huge help for those in the Job Order status to be regular for our family. So that we can rely on security."

BFAR estimates that approximately 250 to 300 personnel could benefit from this move once the budget is approved and granted.