Design of BFAR’s multi-mission vessel
MANILA, Philippines — Illegal fishing is still a problem in the country.
Despite reduced incidents of illegal activities at sea, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said, the government is still losing billions of dollars.
The total eradication of illegal activities is still difficult to achieve due to insufficient vessels running after illegal fishermen.
But in 16 months, the floating assets of BFAR will add two multi-mission vessels which are now under construction.
While the Philippine Navy’s ships are imported, the BFAR’s will be locally made.
It will have a length of 50.5 meters;longer than an Olympic-size swimming pool and can carry 60 personnel at the speed of 18 knots.
Total cost is estimated at P178.5 million.
BFAR Undersecretary Asis Perez said, “Kung magiging successful tayo, maganda yung magagawa nating barko ma-e-encourage din natin yung iba pang ahensya na kung magpapagawa ng barko; Pilipino na rin magpapagawa.
(If we are successful, in creating a great vessel, it will encourage other agencies to seek the service of Filipino ship builders.)
This project is in line with the implementation of the amended fisheries code.
When the building of the ships is completed, it will patrol the high seas pocket number one where tunas are captured.
Sec. Proceso Alcala said, its construction is not for use in war but at least it can be used to patrol the West Philippine Sea in order to protect Filipino fishers.
“Maganda po ito. Kung nandyan siya, kapag may panahon na kailangan ng proteksyon ng ating mga mangingisda, kung baga, meron syang big bother na pwede siyang ayudahan.”
(It will serve as protection in times of needs for our fishermen. Just like having a big brother that may assist them.)
REY PELAYO / UNTV News
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