The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) is pressing ahead with nationwide fuel assistance ramping up support for Filipino fisherfolk as surging global oil prices squeeze livelihoods and threaten food supply.
While awaiting the signing of a supplemental agreement by the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), which will unlock an additional P50 million for some 15,000 more municipal fisherfolk—particularly in 5th class municipalities—the bureau said it is continuing disbursements using remaining funds from last year to avoid any disruption in assistance.
The fuel subsidy program, already in place before the latest geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, forms part of DA-BFAR’s broader push to protect livelihoods and reinforce national food security amid volatile oil markets.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the government would not allow external shocks to derail the livelihood of small-scale fishers. “Global fuel volatility should not come at the expense of our fisherfolk’s survival,” he said.
“We are moving promptly to ensure assistance reaches them without delay because keeping our fishing boats running means keeping food on Filipino tables and sustained livelihoods for our fishers.”
More than 10,000 fisherfolk nationwide have so far benefited from the ongoing rollout.
Regions VII and V recorded the highest numbers, with 4,356 and 3,334 beneficiaries, respectively, as distributions continue from March 16 to 26. Other regions—including I, II, III, VI, VIII, and XII—are also covered, with a mix of completed, partial, and scheduled releases.
DA-BFAR said it is working closely with the DBP to fast-track the supplemental agreement and ensure the timely release of additional funds.
Under the Fuel Assistance Program, each qualified fisherfolk beneficiary receives a one-time P3,000 subsidy.
Assistance is released through cash cards for those with access to fuel stations, while cash vouchers are issued in remote areas to ensure no one is left behind.
The bureau said it remains focused on mobilizing resources and strengthening inter-agency coordination to keep interventions timely, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the fisheries sector.
With fuel costs still under pressure, DA-BFAR underscored that sustained support for fisherfolk remains critical to safeguarding both livelihoods and the country’s food supply.
