SUBIC, ZAMBALES – As part of the “Subic Ay!” celebration, some 1,000 registered farmers and fisherfolks from the seven (7) coastal barangays, joined the “Araw ng Mangingisda and Magsasaka” held at New Fishport, this municipality.
Miguela Lolita Buan, Municipal Agriculturist said, the local government unit (LGU) of Subic have undertaken various activities in recognition of the important roles and contributions of farmers and fisherfolk in the development of the country.
Buan said these activities included the fluvial parade participated by some fifty (50) small fishing boats and commercial fishing vessels carrying patron saints Antonio de Padua, San Roque, San Isidro, St. James and images of Sto. Niño, banca races, swimming competition, tug of war, “hulihan ng biik”, Maria Went to Market, “palosebo and basagan ng palayok”.
Cash prizes were given to winners of the different competition, while lots and lots of raffle prizes awaits other participants and guests.
Fisherfolk leaders also held information and education campaign on “Malinis, Masaganang Karagatan” highlighting partnership of the LGU, fisherfolk and community stakeholders in adopting projects that will help in the protection and preservation of the environment and rehabilitation of mangrove and river sites.
“Mayor Jefferson Khonghun has fully supported the celebration of the fisherfolks and farmers day, leading the different government agencies here to make this day possible,” Buan added.
Buan said, since majority of the residents of Subic are still engage in either farming or fishing as their primary source of livelihood, the LGU of Subic and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 3, are continuously providing programs to assist fisherfolks living in the coastal barangays of Subic, and seed and farming implements distribution for farmers to increase their sources of income. (Dante M. Salvana)