The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) on Wednesday announced the allocation of PHP18 million worth of fisheries livelihood projects for the province of Aurora in 2025.

In a speech delivered on behalf of BFAR Regional Director Wilfredo Cruz during the Agriculture Day celebration, Fishery Regulatory Officer I Luther Tangson cited the agency’s extensive program to further strengthen the livelihood of fishermen in the province.

According to Tangson, BFAR will provide fishermen with equipment, such as boats, gillnets, tuna handlines, fish corral (lambaklad), and fish aggregating devices (payao) to increase their catch, particularly tuna, one of Aurora’s primary products.

Additionally, indigenous fishermen will receive spearguns to support their traditional fishing methods, he said.

“We at BFAR will continue to be your partner in every step toward the development of your fisheries,” Tangson said.

According to local transport permit data from 2024, about 200,000 kg. of fish were transported from Aurora to various areas in Luzon, including the National Capital Region (NCR) and Cagayan Valley.

Meanwhile, the town of Dingalan is now recognized as the next tuna capital of the country, recording 500,000 kg. of tuna annually at its community fish landing center.

Aurora Governor Reynante Tolentino thanked and recognized farmers, fisherfolk, and all workers in the agriculture sector in the province.

“You are the true heroes of our province – your hard work, perseverance, and dedication ensure that every Auroreno has food on the table,” he said in a speech. “Your job is not easy, from planting and fishing to harvesting, but despite all the challenges, you continue to strive for your families and our community.”

To support the agricultural sector, Tolentino said, the provincial government would continue implementing programs to strengthen the industry, including distributing modern farming and fishing equipment to improve and streamline production, expanding knowledge on modern technology in agriculture and fisheries, providing financial support to farmers and fishermen to grow their livelihoods, providing easier access to markets to increase the income of farmers and fishermen, and ensuring support and assistance during calamities and climate change.

The Agriculture Day celebration was part of Aurora’s 46th founding anniversary. (PNA)