MANILA -- Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) National Director Asis Perez said he will advocate for the prevention of floods in the province instead of conducting rescue and response operations when it occurs.
In line with the recent onslaught of Typhoon "Lando" in Pampanga and neighboring provinces, Perez said he will personally propose measures on how to prevent flooding to protect the interest of the people, particularly fisherfolks.
"Once flooding occurs, all sectors of society will be affected and one of those that are greatly affected are our fishermen. Sira na ang kabuhayan, sira pa ang mga materyales," said Perez.
Perez said he will commit himself in this matter because he believe this is an agenda that should be pushed not just for the protection of fisherfolks, but more importantly for everyone.
Perez cited waterways which are obstructed by fishponds in between which usually delay the subsidence of water during flooding.
"Sometimes, disasters are brought about by people doing the wrong thing," Perez said.
"We cannot afford to lose that big simply because of people who are obstructing the waterways. So I guess it is time for the entire province of Pampanga and neighboring towns to meet. Mag-usap usap para ma-resolve na itong problemang ito."
Perez said he will call for the review of the right waterways in the province as an initial action on preventing such incidents to happen that greatly affects the fishery sector.
According to the recent report of Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, some P66-million worth of aquatic resources, particularly in tilapia from Candaba were damaged.
In an interview with Sun.Star Pampanga during the Media Conference held here, Perez vowed to visit the province after the meeting to coordinate with the provincial government. He said they will check areas with obstructions and demolish them if possible.
"Responding to disasters is one but preventing it from happening as a result of irresponsible manmade actions primarily dictated by the need to earn for the expense of others has to end," he said.