The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) XI led the ceremonial turnover of the 62-footer Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) tuna handline fishing boat at the Community Fish Landing Center (CFLC) in Barangay Santiago, Caraga, Davao Oriental on January 9, 2026.

One (1) unit of 62-ft FRP handline fishing boat with complete gear accessories, including six (6) pakura was officially turned over to the Santiago Farmers and Fisherfolk Association. The activity was made more meaningful with the presence of the BFAR National Director Elizer S. Salilig as the guest speaker. In his message, Director Salilig emphasized the richness of the country’s marine resources and the importance of sustainable utilization.

“Napakaswerte natin sa Pilipinas dahil sagana ang ating likas-yaman. Hindi na natin kailangang mag-abroad para magkaroon ng mas maayos na buhay. Ang hamon ko sa inyo ay gamitin natin ang mga biyayang ito sa tama at sustenableng paraan,” Director Salilig said.

The ceremony was attended by fisherfolk beneficiaries, financiers, and key officials, including Hon. Nelson L. Dayanghirang, Sr., Governor of Davao Oriental; Hon. Ronie S. Osnan, Municipal Mayor of Caraga; Sharon M. Baidiango, Chief of BFAR XI’s Fisheries Production and Support Services Division (FPSSD); Jefferson L. Montera, Provincial Fisheries Officer of Davao Oriental; along with personnel from the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAGRO) of Davao Oriental and the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAGRO) of Caraga.

Mayor Osnan expressed his gratitude to BFAR for the continued support to the local fishing community and reminded the beneficiaries of their responsibility to properly utilize the assistance.

“Hangyo nako nga gamiton nato ug husto ang gihatag sa BFAR ug sa atong gobyerno. Dako kaayo ni’g tabang sa inyong panginabuhian,” the Mayor said.

This vessel is part of the second batch of 62-ft FRP fishing boats allocated to the Davao Region under BFAR’s Capacitating Municipal Fisherfolk Program, a flagship initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of local fishing communities in maximizing production from capture fisheries particularly in the region’s tuna-rich fishing grounds contributing to sustainable livelihoods and food security.