The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Caraga has officially rolled out its first Know-Your-Client (KYC) Caravan, continuing the rollout of its Fuel Assistance to Fisherfolk Project (FAFP) that began in 2022.

The first cluster of the KYC Caravan was held on September 30, 2025 at the Ladgaron Gymnasium in Claver, Surigao del Norte, where 442 fisherfolk from the municipalities of Bacuag, Claver, Mainit, Malimono, Placer, Taganaan, and Surigao City received their fuel discount cards.

During the turnover, Claver mayor Georgia Gokiangkee addressed the crowd, lauding DA-BFAR’s efforts and urging fisherfolk to uphold sustainable and legal fishing practices. Gokiangkee also emphasized the importance of protecting marine resources for future generations.

FAFP focal person Jun Mark Guerra of DA-BFAR Caraga presented the program overview, while fintech partner Universal Storefront Services Corporation (USSC) guided beneficiaries through the KYC and card distribution process.

The second cluster rollout followed on October 2, 2025 at the Teatro Nan Dapa in Dapa, Surigao del Norte, benefitting another 281 fisherfolk from the municipalities of Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen, General Luna, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, and Socorro.

The Fuel Assistance to Fisherfolk Project aims to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices on small-scale fishers by providing fuel support to registered fisherfolk operating motorized fishing vessels, reinforcing the government’s commitment to food security and sustainable livelihoods in coastal communities.