Families of 3 fisherfolk killed in WPS mishap get P20K
THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) handed P20,000 assistance to each of the families of the three fishermen mercilessly killed in Bajo de Masinloc at the West Philippine Sea after a foreign vessel rammed their fishing boat last Oct. 2.
BFAR National Director Demosthenes Escoto handed the cash assistance and food packages to each of the bereaved families during his visit to the wake of the three fishermen Thursday night in Calapandayan, Subic, Zambales.
Killed in the brutal ramming incident were Benidecto Olandria, Dexter Laudencia and Romeo Mejico Jr. “Buong-pusong nakikiramay po ang BFAR sa inyo,” Escoto told them during his visit.
Escoto disclosed that the BFAR will also provide a scholarship for their children’s college education in fisheries at any state college or university where they are qualified for admission.
This covers tuition, monthly stipend and thesis allowance until they finish the program. Escoto said that the BFAR will prioritize the scholars for employment.
The 11 other survivors of the maritime incident each received P2,000 cash aid and food packs from BFAR.
In addition, the BFAR has committed to assist in repairing the vessel that was damaged during the Oct. 2 incident to help the affected fisherfolk resume their livelihood activities.
The Bureau will also provide a brand-new 62-footer fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) fishing boat to the Subic Commercial Operators Fishing Association Inc. as an additional boat they can use while fishing.
Delma Morados, the association’s vice president, received the award on behalf of the group.
Escoto further told the families that additional livelihood packages such as post-harvest training and equipment will be given to them to help them through the Bureau’s regional office in Central Luzon, headed by Region 3 Regional Director Wilfredo M. Cruz.
“Malalim po ang respeto namin sa mga mangingisda ng Pilipinas na itinuturing naming mga bayani at kasangga ng pamahalaan para masigurong may sapat na pagkain sa bansa,” Escoto said.
