Wednesday, December 14, 2011

2011 Search for Outstanding Volunteers

The Regional Selection Committee (RSC) recently picked the Balanga City Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (CFARMC) of Bataan as Central Luzon's sole bet to the 2011 Search for Outstanding Volunteers.

RSC chair Greg Pineda of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said "Balanga CFARMC was chosen because of its active involvement in the protection and rehabilitation of the environment."

The group, which has around 500 fishermen members, has been a vital partner of the city government in apprehending violators of section 88 of Republic Act 8550 otherwise known as the Philippine Fisheries Code.

Such section of the law prohibits fishing using explosives, noxious or poisonous substances, and electricity.

The CFARMC likewise assists in the enforcement of City Ordinance No.133,Series of 2004 which mandates the registration of all fishing vessels operating within the water jurisdiction of Balanga.

Moreover, the group conducts clean up drives along the coastal barangays at least twice a week.

Balanga CFARMC is also responsible for the establishment of the mangrove nursery which currently serves as the seed bank for mangrove species that are needed for the rehabilitation of the coastal area. To date, 57 hectares had been planted with mangrove seedlings.

Pineda explained "Search for Outstanding Volunteers is an annual contest organized by the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency, an attached agency of NEDA, which aims to highlight and recognize the exemplary performance and dedication to service of Filipino volunteers in building strong communities across the country through volunteerism."

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