Baler, Aurora — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 3 (BFAR3) granted boat repair materials to 250 fisherfolk from this province on 20 December 2024.

The distribution was led by BFAR3 regional director Wilfredo Cruz, who said that the grants are part of the bureau’s support to the local fisherfolk whose fishing boats were damaged by typhoon “Pepito.”

He added that the 250 fisherfolks came from the towns of Dipaculao and Dinalungan in Aurora, ensuring that BFAR3 demonstrates its commitment to assisting the fisherfolk in their recovery efforts.

A total of 1,000 sets of boat repair materials, consisting of plywood, copper nails, epoxy and paint were distributed — essential materials needed to repair the damaged boats that are vital to the community’s daily operations.

The fisherfolk from both towns expressed their gratitude for the timely intervention, with many noting that their boats were crucial for their livelihood. The materials given by BFAR will help them restore their vessels, enabling them to return to their daily activities.

BFAR3 said that the distribution of materials is part of a broader initiative by the agency to assist the fishing communities in Central Luzon, which suffered damages from typhoon “Pepito,” which hit the region earlier this year.