SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — A total of 27 fisheries groups were feted at the culminating event of the 60th Anniversary of the Fish Conservation Week over the weekend

Held at The Orchidarium of the Orchid Gardens Resort Complex, the occasion hailed the success and contributions of ocean defenders.

The 27 fisheries cooperatives and associations were feted along with local government units  during the Gawad Pasasalamat awards.

According to BFAR Region 3 Regional Director Wilfredo M. Cruz, the awards are expressions of gratitude for the recipients' help in spreading knowledge and experiences about fish conservation.

He added that their unwavering dedication aims to keep the fishing sector healthy and productive.

Cruz led the event as various officials in the region witnessed the awarding, citing the importance of collaboration among various sectors in implementing fish conservation in the region.