SAN ANTONIO, ZAMBALES — Members of the Bantay-Dagat from five municipalities in Zambales underwent a Training and Orientation on Safety at Sea on the Use of Safety and Communication Equipment as part of efforts to strengthen their preparedness and response capabilities at sea.
The Batch 2 training was held from September 28 to October 2, 2026, and was attended by Bantay-Dagat members from San Antonio, San Narciso, Iba, Masinloc and Candelaria.
The training was led by the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) National Marine Fisheries Development Center, headed by Ms. Rhoda S. Bacordo, Head/Chief of the National Marine Fisheries Development Center.
The Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) of San Antonio, led by Ms. Jennybabe Caabay, actively participated in the program, together with Hon. Councilor Deo Delos Reyes, Chair of the Committee on Agriculture.
Representatives from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) National Headquarters–Medical Services also took part in the training, including Jester V. Picart, Ensign (ENS), and Isaiah Wayne S. Yambao, Apprentice Seaman (ASN).
The training aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of Bantay-Dagat members in the proper use of safety and communication equipment while operating at sea.
It also emphasized the importance of preparedness and appropriate response to unexpected situations at sea, particularly those that may pose risks to fishermen and other individuals using the country’s coastal and marine waters.
The activity forms part of continuing efforts to promote maritime safety and the protection of marine resources through improved preparedness, coordination and response capabilities among Bantay-Dagat members and partner agencies.
Mayor Dok Arvin Antipolo and the Municipal Government of San Antonio expressed their appreciation to the DA-BFAR National Marine Fisheries Development Center, led by Bacordo, the Philippine Coast Guard National Headquarters–Medical Services, as well as the participating municipalities and individuals who contributed to the successful implementation of the training.
Through continued training and collaboration among local governments, national government agencies and Bantay-Dagat groups, the program seeks to contribute to safer seas, more prepared coastal communities and the sustainable protection of Zambales’ marine resources.
