ILOILO CITY, Philippines — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is moving to significantly increase financial support for the country’s fishing industry as global oil prices continue to strain local operations. On Monday, April 27, 2026, BFAR Assistant Director for Administrative Services Zaldy Perez announced a proposal for an expanded fuel subsidy program that aims to cover a broader range of stakeholders within the sector.
The announcement was made in Tigbauan, Iloilo, following the inauguration of a new aquaculture feed mill plant at the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC).
The enhanced subsidy plan, directed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., seeks to move beyond the traditional focus on small-scale fishers to include industrial-level operations:
- Municipal Fishers: Direct aid could increase from the standard P3,000 to as much as P9,000 per month. This elevated rate is intended to be a temporary measure for the duration of the current energy crisis.
- Commercial and Aquaculture Operators: For the first time, these larger-scale operations may be included in the subsidy program. The proposed assistance is based on productivity, with a suggested P10 per kilogram subsidy based on verified fish landings.
- Inclusivity: The goal is to provide relief to the entire supply chain, ensuring food security and price stability for fish products in the market.
While the expanded proposal is being finalized for approval, BFAR assured that current support mechanisms are still active:
- Standard Distribution: BFAR continues to roll out its regular fuel assistance of P3,000 per registered fisher or boat owner using existing funds.
- Registration Update: Perez urged all fisherfolk to coordinate with their respective BFAR regional offices to update their registration and complete boat validations, as these are mandatory requirements for receiving any government aid.
- Agriculture Integration: The program is part of a larger P10-billion cash assistance rollout by the Department of Agriculture (DA) aimed at supporting both farmers and fisherfolk during the prevailing economic headwinds.
The proposal arrives at a critical time as the Philippines navigates the ripple effects of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have driven Brent crude prices above $100 a barrel. High fuel costs directly translate to higher operational expenses for fishers, often leading to reduced fishing trips and a subsequent drop in local supply. By increasing the subsidy, the government hopes to maintain the frequency of fishing expeditions and prevent a spike in the retail price of fish, a primary protein source for many Filipino households.