LGU-ARINGAY NOTCHES NATIONAL AWARD FOR BANTAY DAGAT EFFORTS DURING THE ANNUAL FISH CONSERVATION WEEK CELEBRATION

This year, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) lined up activities for the Fish Conservation Week Celebration that kicked off last September 13, 2021. The 58th year celebration honored the best performing local government units in their fish conservation efforts. The Municipality of Aringay received the “Gawad Pagkilala” National Award for being the Best and the Top Municipality in its Bantay Dagat efforts. The Municipality was Region 1’s best in the Municipal Law Enforcement Team Category. Furthermore, the Municipality received the “Gawad Pasasalamat” Award for the untiring efforts in the Conservation and Management of the Fishery Resources. The PNP Maritime Law Enforcement Team and Philippine Coast Guard, Aringay Substation were equally recognized and appreciated for their contributions to attaining the Gawad Pagkilala Award for the Municipality.

Due to the pandemic, the awarding ceremony was observed through virtual mode. The celebration was observed to promote the importance of fish and other aquatic products to the people’s well-being and the country’s economy. This year’s theme is “Pangisdaang Likas-Kaya, Bunga’y Masaganang Ani at Mataas.” These efforts of the Municipality are the concerted efforts of the Bantay-Dagat Team, Philippine Coastguard, PNP-Maritime and the lead efforts of Mayor Eric O. Sibuma through the Municipal Agriculture Office – Fisheries Unit led by Engr. Benjamin M. Magno, the Sangguniang Bayan led by Vice-Mayor Benjamin O. Sibuma and the Chairperson of the Agriculture/Fishery Committee, Ramsey Pascual D. Mangaoang. The LGU of Aringay is continuously ensuring the protection of small fisherfolks, fisheries and aquatic resources in municipal waters, and ensure small fisherfolks’ rights for preferential use of resources.