PASUQUIN, ILOCOS NORTE—The introduction of lambaklad, a sustainable fish trap system, has significantly enhanced the livelihoods of the Dilavo Fishermen Association (DFA) members in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
According to Philippines News Agency, a senior aquaculturist with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Ilocos Region (BFAR-1), this eco-friendly technology has led to a notable increase in the local fishers' catch since its implementation in May 2023.
The DFA, buoyed by favorable weather conditions this Tuesday, showcased a remarkable haul of 216 kilos of tuna, underscoring the efficacy of lambaklad. Eúng Ramos, expressing his gratitude on Facebook, reflected the community's appreciation for this boon. Since the resumption of lambaklad usage on March 8, following repairs necessitated by Super Typhoon Egay's damage in July 2023, the association has reported an impressive collective catch of around 500 kilos of tuna.
Lambaklad, which marries the Filipino words for net ('lambat') and fishpen ('baklad'), is a stationary large-scale fish trap positioned under the sea. This method, based on Japanese fishing technology and adapted by BFAR for local use, enables the DFA's 120 members, including women and youth, to efficiently harvest marine resources close to shore, within 100 to 200 meters from the coastline.
The association's members actively participated in skills training, contributing to the construction, operation, management, and upkeep of the lambaklad infrastructure, which represents a PHP2.8 million investment by the agency. Joel Queddeng, the DFA president, highlighted the transformative impact of this initiative, noting a dramatic increase from an average daily catch of five to 10 kilos to several hundred kilos under optimal conditions.
With ongoing technical support and monitoring from BFAR, the lambaklad project continues to demonstrate its value, enhancing the economic stability and food security of the Pasuquin community. The area's waters are rich with diverse species, including tuna and moonfish, contributing to the robustness of the local fishing industry.