BFAR launches pioneer caravan for fuel assistance to fisherfolk in Surigao Norte
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) —The Department of Agriculture– Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Caraga recently launched its first Know-Your-Client (KYC) Caravan that sustained the distribution of Fuel Assistance to Fisherfolk Project (FAFP) in Surigao del Norte.
The first cluster of the KYC Caravan was held on Sept. 30 at the Ladgaron gymnasium in Claver town where 442 fisherfolk from the municipalities of Bacuag, Claver, Mainit, Malimono, Placer, Taganaan, and Surigao City received their fuel discount cards.
In her message, Claver Mayor Georgia Gokiangkee lauded the DA-BFAR’s efforts in strengthening the fishery sector in the province and urged the fisherfolk to uphold sustainable and lawful fishing practices. She also emphasized the importance of protecting marine resources for future generations.
Meanwhile, Mang Elias, a fisherfolk beneficiary, expressed sincere gratitude for the fuel subsidy, recognizing its importance in helping them cope up with the high cost of fuel which directly impacts their daily livelihood and family expenses. “Malaking tulong po ito sa amin dahil makakamenus- menus po ito sa araw-araw na gastos. Lalo ngayon na kami po ay mga anak na pinapaaral.”
(This fuel subsidy is a great help to us because it will lessen our daily expenses, especially now that we are also supporting the education of our children).
During the distribution, DA- BFAR Caraga FAFP focal person Jun Mark Guerra and Fintech Universal Storefront Services Corporation presented the program overview and guided beneficiaries through the KYC and card distribution process.
The second cluster rollout followed on October 2, 2025 at the Teatro Nan Dapa in Dapa, Surigao del Norte, benefitting another 281 fisherfolk from the municipalities of Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen, General Luna, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, and Socorro.
The Fuel Assistance to Fisherfolk Project aims to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices on small-scale fishers by providing fuel support to registered fisherfolk operating motorized fishing vessels, reinforcing the government’s commitment to food security and sustainable livelihoods in coastal communities. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DA-BFAR Caraga)