TOLENTINO URGES BFAR TO PROACTIVELY ASSIST FISHERMEN AFFECTED BY OIL SPILL

By Liza Soriano

MANILA — Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino has called on the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to take proactive measures in assisting fishermen impacted by the recent oil spill.

The oil spill from the ill-fated MT Terranova has displaced numerous fishermen, severely affecting their livelihoods.

“I hope BFAR will be proactive in assisting our fishers and engaging with them on what needs to be done,” Tolentino stated.

The senator’s appeal comes as the fishers’ organization, PAMALAKAYA, reported that many fishermen have lost their primary source of income due to the environmental disaster.

“If they can’t fish, they can’t eat. With many fishing grounds affected by the oil spill and the resulting fishing ban, our livelihood is in jeopardy,” said Fernando Hicap, chairperson of PAMALAKAYA.

Although BFAR has announced plans to provide fuel subsidies to the affected fishermen, Hicap argued that this support is insufficient and emphasized the need for alternative income sources.

In response to the crisis, Tolentino has filed Senate Resolution No. 1048, which seeks to initiate a Senate inquiry into the cause, extent, and impact of the oil spill.

(ia/mnm)