Leaders of over 600 fishermen from Palawan affected by the West Philippine Sea issues have recognized the swift action of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez to heed their sentiments.
Romualdez expedited the grant of scholarships to over 1,000 fishermen’s children, and the establishment of an ice plant and gas station in Aborlan, Palawan to provide assistance.
The leaders went to ACT-CIS office in Puerto Princesa City to seek help and convey their problems in the West Philippine Sea.
Romualdez visited Palawan on March 1 to inaugurate his office in Puerto Princesa.
ACT-CIS party-list Reps. Erwin Tulfo and Edvic Yap took the opportunity to raise the fishermen’s concerns.
Romualdez is the caretaker of Palawan’s District 3.
“The Speaker met with the leaders even if there was no schedule for such at that time. He readily listened to their problems,” Tulfo said.
The fisherfolks lamented their livelihood had been adversely affected by larger Chinese boats within the West Philippine Sea.
They requested educational assistance for their children, and the provision of an ice plant and gasoline station. They said they were often being bullied because of China’s aggression.
“Let us get a list of the students whom we can grant a scholarship,” Romualdez said.
He said he would consult with District 2 Rep. Jose Alvarez if he could help provide larger boats for the fisherfolks.
He added he would discuss with business tycoon Ramon Ang for the provision of a fuel storage facility, and that he would expedite the establishment of an ice plant.