3,140 fishermen in Eastern Visayas to receive fuel subsidy
TACLOBAN CITY – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is set to distribute P3,000 in fuel subsidy to each of the 3,140 fishermen across the six provinces of Eastern Visayas as part of its fuel subsidy program.
According to Christine Gresola, BFAR regional information officer, the annual one-time subsidy program, which began in 2022, aims to provide financial relief to fisherfolk amid rising fuel costs.
“This initiative is designed to ease the financial burden of our fisherfolk and help them maximize the use of their motorized boats and fishing equipment,” Gresola said in an interview on Friday.
For 2024, BFAR has allocated P9.4 million for the program, with each of the 3,140 beneficiaries set to receive their subsidy starting this month.
The recipients are distributed as follows: Southern Leyte, 735; Leyte – 576; Samar – 558; Eastern Samar, 496; Northern Samar, 394; and Biliran, 381.
Gresola said these 3,140 fishermen belonged to the second tranche of recipients, covering 2023 to 2024. The first tranche in 2022 benefited 5,729 fishermen, with a total funding allocation of P17.1 million.
To qualify for the program, fishermen must either be registered under the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture; Municipal Fisherfolk Registry and Boat; and Municipal Fishing Boats and Gears Registration.
“Additionally, only those who own or operate motorized bancas of three gross tons or below are eligible for assistance,” Gresola said.
Qualified beneficiaries will receive cash cards that can be used to claim their fuel subsidy at designated partner fuel stations under the BFAR program.
“Beneficiaries can only use the card exclusively for fuel purchases at partner oil companies and fuel stations,” Gresola said.
