The City Government of Navotas Saturday awarded 30-footer fiberglass boats and fishing nets to some 100 registered Navoteño fisherfolk.
The turnover, led by Rep. John Rey Tiangco, was held in line with the Navotas 14th cityhood anniversary.
Earlier, 448 fisherfolk also received 540 fishing nets of various sizes.
Beneficiaries of the fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) boats underwent training on boat construction, repair, and maintenance conducted by Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
After the training, they constructed their own boats using materials funded by the local government and 13hp engine, fittings, and other gear provided by BFAR.
"We started the NavoBangka-buhayan program in 2018 in partnership with DA-BFAR and we saw how it helped our fisherfolk gain a sustainable livelihood. Hopefully, we will have our next batch soon," Tiangco said.
The lawmaker also reminded beneficiaries to help keep the environment clean.
"As a fishing community, we depend on our seas and oceans. It is crucial that we protect our waters and our environment from pollution and destruction," he reminded.
Navotas has 9,000 registered fisherfolk. Beneficiaries of the NavoBangka-buhayan program included registered fisherfolks who are considered “poorest of the poor.” They are required to undergo and pass a drug test and must maintain good moral standing.
