The head of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Central Luzon (BFAR-3) has urged fisherfolk in the region to observe safe, proper, and environment-friendly fishing practices.
BFAR Regional Director Wilfredo Cruz encouraged the appropriate use of gears, urging fishers not to use harmful fishing methods to ensure that the benefits of water resources are maximized.
Cruz’s office led the release of 120,000 fingerlings in the rivers of Pampanga and Tarlac province under its Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa (BASIL) program.
He said the dispersal activities were part of the BASIL program that aims to repopulate freshwater bodies with non-invasive and indigenous fish species.
“Overfishing and the use of illegal and destructive fishing methods have virtually decimated the indigenous fish species in major lakes and rivers,” Cruz said.
“This move will help strengthen the local indigenous fish population. The project will also involve the communities surrounding the river and make them aware of the importance of sustainable and environment-friendly fishing practices,” he added.
