By Danny Estacio

 

PAGBILAO, Quezon – The Therma Luzon, Inc. (TLI), a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corporation (Aboitiz Power), and the local government formally handed over to fisher folk association a livelihood project that enables its residents to raise samaral (siganid) in floating fish cages, here, on Monday, Oct. 13.

The project called Biklad sa Lambat aims to offer an alternative livelihood to coastal residents in Pagbilao Bay through the Ibabang Palsabangon Fisherfolk Association.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – National Brackish Water Fisheries Technology Center, the Fisheries Iringan Samahan sa Hanapbuhay Primary Service Cooperative, and the Pagbilao LGU will implement the project.

“The LGU of Pagbilao is full of gratitude for all the assistance and help that companies like Therma Luzon are providing for our constituents,” said Pagbilao Vice Mayor Wally Dapla. “This symbiotic relationship is essential in bringing about positive changes in our communities and in the lives of the people we are serving.”

“Because of this partnership, we will be able to further help our local fisherfolk communities and their families.”

The program’s design promotes the active participation of fisherfolk families, including women and youth, to encourage inclusive participation.

The project aims to yield environmental and economic benefits, including increased fish production and technical expertise among fisherfolk, as well as stimulating eco-tourism and enhancing the local seafood supply chain.

With its protected cove, healthy water quality, and flourishing marine ecosystem supported by continuous coastal resource management initiatives, Pagbilao Bay is an ideal setting for net cage culture.

“This is not only a livelihood initiative,” said AboitizPower Transition Business Group Regional Chief Operating Officer Lito Morta. “It’s about sustainability, empowerment, and our common role to help realize our primary purpose as a company: Transforming Energy for a Better World.”