BFAR: Over 96,000 Filipino fishers receive fuel subsidies

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) on Wednesday said it has distributed P3,000 in direct fuel subsidies to over 96,000 small-scale fisherfolk nationwide as of last month amid volatile global energy prices.

In a news release, BFAR said the number of beneficiaries accounted for 65.71% of its target rollout for the Fuel Assistance to Fisherfolk Program.

“These realities call for a BFAR that is responsive, adaptive, and forward-looking—one that does not wait for problems to escalate into crises,” said BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig.

To provide long-term relief from energy volatility, the bureau said it is also shifting away from grid dependency by investing heavily in climate-smart aquaculture infrastructure:

• Slashed Power Bills: BFAR’s technology station in Tanay, Rizal, successfully cut its electricity consumption by 60% to 70% after pivoting to solar energy. This green model is currently being expanded across seven National Technology Centers and multiple hatcheries.
• Off-Grid Cold Chains: The bureau is funding hybrid solar ice plants and solar-powered water impounding facilities in remote, off-grid coastal municipalities. The goal is to dramatically lower post-harvest spoilage and preserve product quality without relying on expensive fossil fuels.

The BFAR said its fuel and energy interventions are tied to a wider supply chain overhaul intended to lower market losses and boost the daily take-home pay of local fishermen.

This includes the deployment of fiberglass boats, the expansion of Community Fish Landing Centers, and the distribution of high-quality fish seeds—including resilient species like crayfish and ulang or giant freshwater prawn.

The BFAR said its recent operational speed and supply chain interventions recently earned it the Top 2 Performer spot under the Department of Agriculture’s Performance Appreciation System for Operating Units (PAS-OU) Awards. —AOL, GMA News