Many coastal communities across the Philippines have seen firsthand how climate events like El Niño can reduce daily catch from feeding two families to barely covering one meal. During these times, government support—such as food packs and financial aid—has made the difference between stability and hardship. Programs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) continue to provide critical lifelines to those who rely on the sea.
Fisherfolk remain among the most vulnerable to climate shocks, market disruptions, and seasonal fishing bans. That’s why Fisherfolk Assistance Programs exist—to safeguard one of the country’s most vital yet at-risk livelihoods. If you or your community depends on fishing and needs support, here are three major programs you can explore—along with how to apply.
1. DSWD: Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families
This program responds directly to climate-related disasters like El Niño, typhoons, or droughts by offering both financial aid and infrastructure support to affected fisherfolk and their families.
What’s Included:
- Direct cash assistance
- Agricultural and fishing inputs (nets, gear, etc.)
- Infrastructure repair for coastal communities
- Technical training for resilience
“Naramdaman namin ang tulong nang walang-wala na,” says Rina, a fisherwoman from Zamboanga. “Hindi lang bigas ang binigay—pati pang-ayos ng bangka.”
How to Apply:
- Check your eligibility: Must be a registered fisherfolk in an affected area (under a declared state of calamity).
- Prepare documents: Barangay certificate of residency, valid ID, proof of fishing livelihood.
- Go to your DSWD regional office or attend local government orientations.
- Submit your application with supporting documents.
- Wait for approval and disbursement, usually done via cash cards or payout centers.
2. BFAR: Fisherfolk Marketing Cooperatives Program
The Fisherfolk Marketing Cooperatives Program by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is designed to give fisherfolk more control over their livelihoods by organizing them into cooperatives. This initiative helps eliminate the reliance on middlemen, who often buy catch at unfairly low prices, leaving fisherfolk with limited profit. By forming cooperatives, members gain better bargaining power, direct access to markets, and eligibility for capacity-building programs.
According to BFAR, organized fisherfolk can increase their income by up to 30% through cooperative selling models. These cooperatives also receive essential support such as technical training, equipment grants, and startup funding, enabling them to operate sustainable, community-based enterprises. With over 1.9 million registered fisherfolk in the Philippines, initiatives like this ensure that small-scale fishers are not left behind in the evolving economy.
Program Benefits:
- Better income through direct selling
- Support for storage, packaging, and transport
- Training on bookkeeping, quality control, and marketing
“Nung nag-coop kami, hindi na kami lugi sa bentahan,” shares Jojo, a cooperative leader in Quezon. “Diretso kami sa buyers. Mas mataas ang kita.”
How to Apply:
- Form a group of at least 15 fisherfolk in your barangay or municipality.
- Register your group with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).
- Submit a project proposal to the nearest BFAR Provincial Fisheries Office.
- Attend training and compliance checks facilitated by BFAR.
- Receive initial capital, marketing assistance, and technical support.
3. DSWD/BFAR: Social Protection Program for Fisherfolk
This joint program is designed to support fisherfolk during closed fishing seasons, natural calamities, or economic disruptions. It includes emergency cash assistance and livelihood starter kits for recovery.
What’s Covered:
- Monthly cash grants during off-seasons
- Assistance in transitioning to alternative livelihoods (e.g., aquaculture, food vending)
- Mental health and psychosocial services
“Wala kaming kita pag bawal mangisda. Pero dahil sa tulong, may pambili pa rin ng bigas,” says Aling Nida, a fisherfolk leader in Palawan.
How to Apply:
- Register as a fisherfolk with your local BFAR office.
- Coordinate with your Barangay or Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO).
- Submit a request for assistance with supporting documents (ID, residency, fishery registration).
- Wait for validation and release of aid.
TIP: Early registration with BFAR ensures you’re automatically on the list when emergencies strike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I need to be part of a cooperative to receive aid?
A: No. Some programs like the Presidential Assistance and Social Protection are open to individuals. However, forming a coop helps in accessing long-term support.
Q: Are these programs available year-round?
A: Availability depends on government budget cycles and calamity declarations. Check regularly with your LGU or regional DSWD/BFAR offices.
Q: Can I apply even if I don’t own a boat?
A: Yes, as long as you are registered as a fisherfolk (e.g., boat crew, seaweed farmer, shellfish harvester).
Q: How do I register with BFAR?
A: Visit your nearest BFAR Provincial Fisheries Office, bring a valid ID and proof of fishing activity (like a barangay certification or photos). Registration is usually free.
Conclusion
Fisherfolk remain among the most vulnerable workers in the country, often hit first and hardest by climate change. But with programs like the Presidential Assistance to Fisherfolk, the Fisherfolk Marketing Cooperatives Program, and the Social Protection Program, we now have lifelines that can help secure their future.
If you’re part of a fishing family, or know someone who is—now is the time to act. These Fisherfolk Assistance Programs exist so no Filipino fisher has to face hardship alone.