Amid tensions in the Middle East, one of the sectors directly affected is the small-scale fishermen of Navotas, known as the “fishing capital of the Philippines.”

In the exclusive interview on Point of View, Fernando “Pando” Hicap, National Chairperson of PAMALAKAYA-Pilipinas, shared that about 80% of their costs were spent on fuel, making the sharp increase in prices extremely burdensome.

“Kung ngayon na triple yung presyo mula sa ₱50-60 per liter, ngayon nasa ₱120-130 na kaya triple. Ibig sabihin kung dati ang minimum na gastos namin ay ₱500 ay naging ₱1,500 na ngayon,” he said.

Because of this, the daily earnings of many fishermen have dropped from around ₱200–₱350 to almost nothing, with some receiving only ₱55 per trip.

Compounding the problem is the lack of immediate government assistance, despite announced fuel subsidy programs that have yet to be fully distributed.

“Sabi nila na pwede may maitulong kaagad sa mga magsasaka at mangingisda na ₱5,000 ang allocation sa mga magsasaka at ₱3,000 sa mga mangingisda pero hanggang ngayon wala pa,” he noted.

Recent reports show that rising fuel prices have a direct impact on their livelihood, as a large portion of their expenses goes to gasoline for each fishing trip. Last March, the group stated that only around 23,000 of the country’s 2.7 million registered fisherfolk are likely to benefit from the government’s fuel subsidy program.

The situation of fishermen remains challenging due to the combined effects of rising fuel prices, increased fishing competition, and delays in government assistance, highlighting the need for long-term and sustainable livelihood support.