CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) -- A total of 40 fishpond operators in Macabebe, Pampanga received livelihood aid from Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

The P2.27-million aid, given to those who were severely affected by Typhoon Karding in 2022, include essential farm inputs such as 205 nets, 75 sacks of fertilizers, and 238 sacks of feed. 

BFAR Regional Director Wilfredo Cruz disclosed that the assistance package is part of the P15 million worth of farm inputs allocated for Central Luzon under the Department of Agriculture's Typhoon Karding Rehabilitation Project. 

It primarily aims to rehabilitate damaged fishpond structures and replenish the extensive loss in aquaculture caused by the tropical disturbance.

During the distribution of aid, Cruz highlighted the importance of collective efforts in rebuilding the livelihood of fishpond operators as well as BFAR’s dedication in providing support to affected communities.

“The fisheries sector plays a crucial role in the region's economy, and we are committed to supporting those who have been severely impacted by natural calamities. This distribution is a step towards revitalizing the fishpond industry and helping operators recover from the losses incurred during the typhoon," he pressed. 

The 40 beneficiaries are the first batch out of the 86 affected aquaculture operators in Pampanga that will receive aid. Earlier, it distributed the same assistance to about 122 fishpond operators in the province of Bulacan. 

Data from BFAR shows that a total of 298 operators with 418.83 hectares of aquafarm were affected by Typhoon Karding in the region. 

Aside from farm inputs, the agency also allocated P21 million for seedstocks assistance distribution in Central Luzon, which already benefitted 361 operators and served 603.59 hectares of land area. (CLJD/MJSC-PIA 3)