The first batch of Badjaos, sea gypsies who have long been neglected by government and looked down upon by society, have joined government as auxiliaries under the “Bantay Laut” program.
As “Bantay Laut” auxiliaries, the Badjao fishermen were given fiberglass motorized fishing boats.
They will also be issued IDs and radio communications equipment which would link them up with the Coast Guard and the Maritime Police.
They will be tasked with monitoring illegal fishing activities in the seas fronting their communities and also gather garbage floating in the waters.
The Badjaos will receive an honorarium of P3,000 on the condition that they will allow their children to undergo a basic literacy program.
The next batch of Badjaos who will be drafted as “Bantay Laut” will be those from Zamboanga and Basilan.
(Photos by Jon Morales)
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