By Kenneth Marcos 
On a sunny morning in Hamtic, Antique, fishermen gathered along the shore, eyes bright with anticipation, as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally led the turnover of new fishing boats. Eleven fiberglass plastic-reinforced (FRP) boats, each equipped with marine engines and essential accessories worth ₱770,000, were handed over by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Regional Office VI on January 19, 2026.
The initiative aims to support local fisherfolk from Anini-y, Tobias Fornier, Hamtic, and Bugasong by improving fishing efficiency, ensuring safer trips at sea, and strengthening livelihoods.
“Sa ating mga fishermen ay may konting tulong din tayo, may dala tayong bangka na may motor para magamit nila,” President Marcos said, highlighting the government’s commitment to the fisheries sector.
For local fishermen like 43-year-old Belmon Sagudaquil of the Igdanlug Fisherfolk Association, the new boats are more than equipment—they are hope for a more secure livelihood. “It is really good to receive a boat. This is a big help to us, and the boat is well-built and durable—it will not easily get damaged,” Sagudaquil said. He has been fishing since he was 26, and he welcomed the support as a way to sustain his family and community.
The boat turnover coincided with the inspection of a PhP94.8-million Rice Processing System (RPS) in Barangay Poblacion 5, Hamtic. Built by the Philippine Center for Post-Harvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) and funded through the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund, the facility is part of the government’s efforts to modernize agriculture and support farmers.
The event also highlighted other interventions for local farmers, including financial assistance, crop insurance claim checks through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, distribution of farm machinery such as tractors and rice combine harvesters, livestock multiplier farms, and solar-powered systems for selected cooperatives.
“Para naman mas maging maganda ang hanap-buhay ng ating mga farmer na kailangan natin talagang alagaan dahil sila ang nagpapakain sa ating lahat kaya’t kailangan ng ganitong klaseng mga facilities,” President Marcos said, emphasizing the importance of protecting and empowering farmers.
DA-BFAR noted that the new fishing boats aim to enhance safety, increase catch efficiency, and improve incomes for small-scale coastal fisherfolk in Antique. This fisheries support complements the broader value-chain approach of the Department of Agriculture, ensuring that both farmers and fisherfolk receive coordinated assistance to boost productivity and economic stability in the province.
Through programs like these, Antique’s communities are set to benefit from improved livelihoods, safer working conditions, and modern tools that strengthen local agriculture and fisheries.
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