Pamalakaya: Fund fisherfolk, not hold fishing contest in Subic Bay
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT—As the inaugural “Subic Bay Shore Fishing” tournament opened on Friday, the fisherfolk group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) criticized the event, saying it failed to address the real needs of the fishing industry.
The tournament, which drew about 300 local and international anglers, was organized to promote sustainable fishing practices and showcase the area’s rich marine biodiversity.
But Pamalakaya argued that such activities often sidelined the struggles of small-scale fishers.
“Their context of responsible fishing and marine conservation always excludes traditional fishing. There are many restrictions that usually affect small fishermen,” said Fernando Hicap, Pamalakaya chair, in an interview.
“If they really want to promote the fishing industry in Subic, then the local government and concerned agencies must provide appropriate support to the local fisherfolk, through production subsidies and other livelihood assistance,” Hicap added.
Support from SBMA
In response, Armina Belleza Llamas, officer in charge of the Office of the Deputy Administrator for Corporate Communications of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), said even before the fishing tournament, the agency has long supported fishermen in nearby communities through various programs, including livelihood assistance, fisheries management and the protection of marine conservation areas.
The fishing tournament was originally scheduled within the All Hands Beach resort’s conservation area and near a Marine Sustainable Use Zone, where fishing is strictly prohibited.
The event was moved to the New Container Terminal Viewdeck along San Bernardino Road after Brighterday Subic Ltd. Inc., which owns and operates All Hands Beach, opposed its original location.
