The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has extended its condolences and immediate assistance to the families of three fishermen who died in a maritime incident off the waters of Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea.

DA-BFAR National Director Atty. Demosthenes R. Escoto handed the Bureau's P20,000 cash assistance and food packages to each bereaved family during his visit to the wake of the three fishermen on Thursday night in Calapandayan, Subic in Zambales.

"Buong-pusong nakikiramay po ang BFAR sa inyo," Director Escoto told them during his visit. "Alam po naming walang kahit anong tulong ang makakatumbas sa buhay ng inyong mga mahal sa buhay, pero nandito po ang aming ahensya para mag-abot ng paunang tulong at makagaan kahit kaunti sa inyong nararamdaman."

Escoto said the Bureau will also provide a scholarship for their children's college education in Fisheries at any state college or university where they are qualified for admission. This covers tuition, monthly stipend, and thesis allowance until they finish the program. Scholars will also be prioritized by the DA-BFAR for employment.

The 11 other survivors of the maritime incident each received P2,000 cash aid and food packs from the Bureau.

In addition, the DA-BFAR has committed to assist in repairing the vessel that was damaged during the October 2 incident to help the affected fisherfolk resume their livelihood activities. The Bureau will also provide a brand-new 62-footer fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) fishing boat to the Subic Commercial Operators Fishing Association Inc. to further equip them in fishing.

Delma Morados, the association's vice president, received the award on behalf of the group Thursday night.

Escoto told the families that additional livelihood packages such as post-harvest training and equipment would be given to them to help them through the Bureau's regional office in Central Luzon, headed by Region 3 Regional Director Wilfredo M. Cruz.

He also honored the sacrifices of the fishermen who perished in the incident — Benidecto V. Olandria, Dexter G. Laudencia, and Romeo L. Mejico Jr.

"Malalim po ang respeto namin sa mga mangingisda ng Pilipinas, na itinuturing naming mga bayani at kasangga ng pamahalaan para masigurong may sapat na pagkain sa bansa," Director Escoto said. "Ayaw po naming makakita ng mga mangingisda na namamatay habang nagsasakripisyo para sa kanilang pamilya at sa bayan kaya ikinalulungkot po namin ang nangyari at kaisa po ninyo kami sa paghahangad ng katotohanan at hustisya," he added, citing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s assurance that the government will hold accountable those behind the tragic incident.