Marcos Jr., Sara eye Badjaos as sea patrollers

The tandem of Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte is considering to tap Badjaos as "sea patrollers" to protect the marine environment and prevent illegal fishing.

According to the BBM-Sara UniTeam on Wednesday, Badjaos have the skills to become "effective force multipliers in implementing our marine environment protection laws."

"Being expert fishermen, deep-sea divers, and navigators, Badjaos possess the skills to become effective 'Bantay Dagat' deputies,"  the UniTeam said.

"Their heritage and culture have always been tied to the sea, and they can be an invaluable ally in our environmental protection efforts," the UniTeam added.

The UniTeam also vowed to ensure the accessibility of livelihood projects and education opportunities for the Badjaos to discourage them from going to Metro Manila to try their luck, but end up begging on the streets.

"Like most Filipinos, they [Badjaos] too aspire for a brighter future. We see livelihood and education as the two essential elements to lift them out of poverty. We commit to giving that to them. No one will be left behind. Sama-sama tayong babangon muli, " the UniTeam said.

The tandem urged local government units to treat Badjaos with dignity and respect and to curb the harsh treatment many of them are experiencing from other individuals.

"It is time for us to end this unwritten policy of exclusion against the Badjaos. They are Filipinos and deserve the opportunities available to everyone. They must be treated with respect and dignity and not herded like cattle every time they are apprehended. This kind of callous treatment must stop," the UniTeam said.—LDF, GMA News