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Marcos, DA distribute motorized boats to Iloilo fisherfolk at fish port inauguration

NPO

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August 17, 2025

ILOILO, Philippines – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday led the turnover of motorized fiberglass boats to fisherfolk in Iloilo as part of the inauguration of the upgraded Iloilo Fish Port Complex.

The boats, provided by the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), are intended to strengthen the livelihoods of small-scale fishermen, improve their catch capacity, and enhance the sustainability of coastal communities in Western Visayas.

Agriculture officials said the distribution is part of the government’s broader effort to modernize the fisheries sector, giving fisherfolk access to safe, reliable, and efficient vessels that can help increase their income while ensuring food security.

During the ceremony, President Marcos emphasized that improving the lives of farmers and fisherfolk remains a priority of his administration.

Also present at the event were Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther E. Bayate, DA-BFAR 6 Director Remia A. Aparri, Iloilo Governor Arthur R. Defensor Jr., Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas, and other government officials and stakeholders.

NPO News Team I DA PR