Speedy search for the missing fishermen sought
Manila, Philippines – The national fishers’ group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA) on Tuesday called for speedy search and rescue operations for the 12 fishermen that went missing after Typhoon Quinta swept across the archipelago.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported 12 missing fishermen from Brgy. Pananogan, Bato; Cagdarao, Panganiban, District 3, and Gigmoto in Catanduanes.
“Authorities must expedite search and rescue operations to find the missing fishermen and return them to their respective families. How unfortunate that they were forced to go offshore despite the turbulent weather because if they didn’t, their families would starve for days,” Fernando Hicap, PAMALAKAYA National Chairperson said in a statement.
The fishers’ group also asked the government to provide aid to the families of the missing fishermen, as they are left with no household incomes due to the unfortunate incident.
“We demand relief for the victims’ families, as the fate of their loved ones are still uncertain,” Hicap added.
Moreover, the group urged for immediate aid for vulnerable poor fisherfolk families affected in Albay, Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Sorsogon and Quezon province.
Lastly, the fishers’ group said the government must mobilize disaster and relief funds to rehabilitate Quinta-stricken coastal communities across the country. ###
Photos by Brigada News FM BICOL
