By Kenneth Marcos 
In the coastal waters of Tagudin, Ilocos Sur, fishermen worked early and late under changing tides, hoping for a good catch that could support their families for the coming days. For many of them, each harvest means food on the table and income for daily needs.
From April 16 to 20, 2026, the Pudoc West Antipolo Fishermen Association successfully harvested a total of 1,860.75 kilograms of various fish species through their Lambaklad Project.
The Lambaklad system is a type of fish aggregation and harvesting method commonly used in coastal communities. It helps local fishermen improve their catch by using structures that attract fish in deeper waters. This technique is seen as a more organized and efficient way of fishing compared to traditional small-scale methods.
According to fisheries groups, projects like Lambaklad are part of ongoing efforts to support sustainable fishing practices in the Philippines. They aim to help small fisherfolk increase their income while also protecting marine resources from overfishing.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has been promoting community-based fishery projects in various coastal areas across the country. These initiatives provide equipment, technical support, and training to help fisherfolk improve their production and adopt better fishing methods.
In Ilocos Sur, fishing remains an important source of livelihood for many coastal families. However, fishermen often face challenges such as unpredictable weather, rising fuel costs, and declining fish stocks in some areas. Programs like Lambaklad are seen as a way to help stabilize their income and improve catch efficiency.
The recent harvest is considered a positive result for the fisherfolk association, showing that community-led fisheries projects can yield significant production when properly managed. The catch included different local fish species commonly found in the waters of northern Luzon, which are usually sold in nearby markets.
Fisherfolk groups also noted that consistent support from government agencies is important to sustain these gains. Access to proper fishing gear, training, and post-harvest facilities can help ensure that fishers get better value for their catch and reduce losses.
Beyond income, fisheries experts also stress the importance of responsible fishing practices. Maintaining healthy marine ecosystems is essential to ensure that future generations of fishermen will continue to benefit from coastal resources.
As coastal communities continue to rely on the sea for survival, projects like Lambaklad highlight the role of innovation and cooperation in improving livelihoods. With proper support and sustainable management, small-scale fishers can strengthen both their income and their resilience against environmental challenges.
The successful harvest in Tagudin serves as a reminder of how community efforts, combined with government support, can help strengthen the country’s fisheries sector and support food security in local communities.
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