Manila Teachers Rep. Virgilio S. Lacson
Rep. Lacson supports PBBM’s agri dev’t efforts
A LAWMAKER has worked in partnership with the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) in providing fiberglass boats for 30 fisherfolks and cash-for-work assistance to their family members.
Manila Teachers Rep. Virgilio S. Lacson said the teaming up is to help boost President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr.’s program on the country’s agricultural productivity.
“We will be spearheading initiatives that have a lasting impact on their (agricultural sector beneficiaries) lives,” Lacson said.
“The goal to modernize agriculture and increase food production is the main purpose of the newly appointed Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Francisco Tiu Laurel. With this, the Manila Teacher is eager to adhere and to be of help to the Secretary, and to fully support President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in improving the agency,” he said.
In keeping with the promise of delivering meaningful programs to the Filipino people, Lacson said his group is set to host the official turnover ceremony of thirty BFAR Fiberglass Reinforced Boats for the benefit of fisherfolks and DoLE TUPAD Payout for their family members.
“The event will go beyond the simple handover of fiberglass boats. Another component of this program is the payout of DoLE Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa ating Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers, where a family member of each fishermen-beneficiary who contributed to the crafting of these boats will also receive cash-for-work assistance from the government. This holistic approach aims to address the broader needs of the beneficiaries and their families. This cash-for-work assistance aims to support a fisherfolk’s family by providing a short-term job to an otherwise unemployed family member,” Lacson added.
He said the collaboration with the BFAR marks its second year, aiming to provide them with durable fiberglass boats, superior in longevity and sturdiness when compared to their wooded counterparts.
Lacson said the program is designed to support the livelihood of the fishermen, ensure a safer and more sustainable source of income, and empower those who have faced adversity and economic hardship while granting them full ownership of their boats.
“Through the use of these boats, we anticipate that the fishermen-beneficiaries will be able to enhance their boat-making skills and fishing skills. It also aims to inspire them to build more businesses. This could also be of help to support their financial needs and spur the growth of the economy through fishing as an archipelagic country,” Lacson said.
The speakers for the event are BFAR Assistant Director Zaldy P. Perez, DoLE Undersecretary Banjo Santos Benavidez, and Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco.
Lacson said their presence underscored the importance of “this partnership and its potential to uplift the lives of the beneficiaries and their families.”
