BAROBO, Surigao del Sur — A fisherfolk association in Surigao del Sur is reaping the benefits of government-supported fisheries modernization after hauling nearly two metric tons of tuna valued at Php 390 thousand during its latest fishing expedition in the Pacific Ocean.

Members of the Wakat Barobo Commercial Fishing Association (WABACOFA) returned to shore on Friday, May 15, 2026, following an eight-day voyage aboard their 62-footer fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) fishing vessel provided by the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR).

The association harvested more than 2,000 kilograms of tuna during the vessel’s 29th fishing trip, underscoring how access to modern fishing technology is helping improve productivity and livelihoods among small-scale commercial fisherfolk in Surigao del Sur.

Since beginning operations in March 2025, WABACOFA has generated more than Php 3 million in cumulative net income from its 42.3 metric tons total catch during its first 20 fishing trips.

The momentum continued in 2026, with the association already recording over 23.4 metric tons of harvest and Php 1.6 million in net income from its eight fishing trips conducted from January to April before the latest trip.

For members of the association, the arrival of the FRP vessel in December 2024 marked a significant turning point in their operations.

Rolly Badilla, 49, WABACOFA vice president and captain of the fishing vessel, said the boat’s modern features have greatly improved both safety and efficiency at sea.

“Dako kaayo ang natabang sa 62-ft FRP boat sa amoang asosasyon,” Badilla said.

A fisherman for nearly 25 years, Badilla noted the stark contrast between the newly acquired FRP vessel and the wooden fishing boats they previously used.

“Mas komportable mi magpalawod ug taas among kumpyansa nga managat tungod kay high-tech gyud siya uban sa mga instruments niya. Durable gyud siya ug solid ang pagkahimo,” he said.

According to Badilla, the vessel’s upgraded engine and equipment have significantly reduced travel time during fishing operations. While their previous wooden boats could only travel at around six knots, the FRP vessel can reach speeds of up to 14 knots and sustain eight to 10 knots during regular trips.

“Mas nakasave mi sa oras kay kusog man siya modagan,” Badilla added.

The improved vessel has also boosted morale among crew members, many of whom now prefer working aboard the FRP boat because of its durability and modern facilities.

“Sa akong kaubanan, mas ganahan gyud sila mosakay tungod sa iyang durability,” Badilla said, expressing gratitude to the government and DA-BFAR for including their association among the beneficiaries of the program.

The latest successful fishing trip reflects ongoing efforts by DA-BFAR to modernize the country’s fisheries sector through the provision of modern fishing technologies and post-harvest support to organized fisherfolk groups. 

Officials said such interventions are designed to enhance catch efficiency, improve safety at sea, and strengthen income opportunities for coastal communities dependent on fisheries.

For WABACOFA, the gains are already evident—higher catches, faster trips, and millions in earnings that continue to uplift fisherfolk families in Barobo, Surigao del Sur.# (Andy T. Ordoña, Information Officer, DA-BFAR Caraga)