Antique fisherfolk group earns PHP 303,624 in 19-day catch

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Pajo Fisherfolk and Farmers Association generated PHP 303,624 in gross sales from a 19-day fishing operation in January, recording a total harvest of 2,008.25 kilograms of assorted fish species.

The catch included hasa-hasa (short-bodied mackerel), tabudlong (round scad), dalusan (frigate tuna) and gurayan (skipjack tuna), reflecting improved yields following repairs to the group’s lambaklad fishing structure.

Lambaklad is a traditional fishing method that uses bamboo rafts and nets to catch fish along migratory routes.

Derived from lambat (net) and baklad (corral), it refers to a bamboo-and-rattan trap set along the path of schooling fish.

Passed down through generations, the cooperative practice is considered both effective and environmentally friendly.

The operation in Pajo is supported under the Special Area for Agricultural Development Program of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.

The program extends assistance not only to registered association members but also to “boso” — nonmembers who serve as essential manpower during harvest operations.

Under the revenue-sharing scheme, proceeds are allocated as follows: Ronda (10%), Maestro (5%), Segundo (2%), Operator (2%), Swimmer (3%), operational expenses (2%) and lambaklad maintenance (10%).

After deductions, 40% of the net sales go to the boso, while 60% accrues to the association.

Aneben V. Miguel, a PaFFA member, said the group observed a significant increase in harvest from December to January after improvements were made to their lambaklad.

“Because of the help from BFAR-SAAD, especially the additional nets, our lambaklad is now positioned more accurately, which has increased our harvest and income. We now have food on the table every day and the means to support our children’s schooling,” he said.

The project sustains more than one family in the community and allows the association to reinvest part of its earnings to strengthen operations.

Through continued support and collective effort, PaFFA aims to further develop the initiative into a sustainable community-based enterprise.