TACLOBAN CITY – Melboy Hechanova was named as the new Regional Fisherfolk Director (RFD) for Eastern Visayas.
Hailing from Catbalogan City, Samar, his deep understanding of the region’s fishing challenges positions him well for the role which he formally took during a ceremony last April 22 at the Regional Freshwater Aquaculture Production Center (RFAPC) Training Center in Babatngon, Leyte.
He pledged to collaborate closely with government agencies and industry partners to enhance fishing communities.
Among those present were top officials of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources headed by its regional director, Hannibal Chavez, whose office spearheaded the event attended by fisherfolk leaders and representatives from the different provinces of the region.
Hechanova’s responsibilities include visiting fisherfolk associations and production centers to better understand their needs and ongoing programs. This initiative coincides with the upcoming Farmers and Fisherfolks Month in May, honoring the nationwide contributions of farmers and fishermen.
His leadership marks a promising step towards addressing the needs of fishermen in Eastern Visayas and fostering a more empowered fishing community.
(THERESE A.CASTILLANO, EASTERN VISAYAS STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENT INTERN)
