Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. is urging action to support Zambales fisherfolk facing challenges due to geopolitical tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), highlighting cooperative clusters and sustainable fishing practices as key solutions.

Speaking at the Provincial Caravan for WPS on October 22 in Olongapo City, Ebdane emphasized the need to organize Zambales’ 27,000 fishermen into cooperative clusters and equip them for long-term sustainability. The event, led by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), gathered local and national agencies to strengthen action plans for WPS-affected provinces.

The governor announced the establishment of the Zambales Maritime Development Council (ZMDC) to oversee fisherfolk cooperatives and unveiled a P5 million fund to provide 45 sets of fishing gear. Talks with the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy are also underway to offer training on modern fishing techniques.

DILG Zambales Provincial Director Martin Porres Moral outlined action items, including coastal cleanup, municipal water boundary enforcement, and support for Bantay Dagat. The initiative is backed by USAID’s RESTORE-WPS project, in partnership with the Gerry Roxas Foundation.