The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is ramping up fuel assistance and climate-resilient investments to help Filipino fisherfolk cut operating costs, improve productivity, and strengthen the country's fish supply against mounting climate and market pressures.

BFAR National Director Elizer S. Salilig said Wednesday the agency is expanding both immediate assistance and long-term infrastructure to make the fisheries sector more resilient while supporting food security.

To cushion the impact of volatile fuel prices, BFAR said it has accelerated the rollout of its Fuel Assistance to Fisherfolk Program, providing P3,000 in fuel subsidies to more than 96,000 beneficiaries, or 65.71 percent of its full-year target as of June.

Likewise, the bureau is investing in climate-smart and energy-efficient aquaculture facilities to reduce production costs and improve the sustainability of fishing communities.

BFAR said its technology station in Tanay, Rizal cut electricity consumption by 60 percent to 70 percent after shifting to solar power, a model now being replicated across hatcheries and seven National Technology Centers.

The agency is also rolling out solar-powered water impounding facilities and hybrid solar ice plants to reduce post-harvest losses and preserve fish quality, particularly in off-grid coastal communities.

"Climate change continues to affect fisheries production and aquatic ecosystems. Environmental degradation threatens critical habitats. Global market requirements continue to evolve. And the growing demand for food compels us to further strengthen production while ensuring sustainability," he said.

"These realities call for a BFAR that is responsive, adaptive, and forward-looking—one that does not wait for problems to escalate into crises, but continuously innovates, collaborates, and improves."

BFAR is also strengthening the fisheries value chain by distributing quality fish seeds, introducing resilient species such as crayfish and ulang, and operating 12 culture laboratories and 68 nurseries nationwide in support of the Philippine Seaweed Industry Roadmap 2027–2031.

The bureau continues to distribute fishing boats under the FB Pagbabago initiative and establish Community Fish Landing Centers to reduce post-harvest losses and improve fisherfolk incomes.