Lapu-Lapu City reallocates P1.39M festival fund to aid fisherfolk amid fuel crisis
Lapu-Lapu City officials redistributed a P1.39 million subsidy to support fisherfolk struggling with rising fuel costs. The fund, originally set aside for the cancelled Sad-Sad Festival, was reallocated to provide direct cash aid. A total of 645 beneficiaries—including fishermen and motorised banca operators—received assistance on 29 April 2026. The subsidy was drawn from disaster funds after the City Government cancelled the Sadsad sa Kadaugan 2026 competitions. Officials cited escalating tensions in the Middle East as the reason for the event’s postponement. Instead, the money was used to help those whose incomes rely heavily on fuel.
Mayor Ma. Cynthia 'Cindi' King-Chan and Councilor Annabeth Cuizon oversaw the distribution. Each beneficiary received cash equivalent to five days of minimum wage. The aid targeted registered fisherfolk with active insurance under the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
Of the 645 recipients, 328 came from Olango Island and 136 from mainland barangays. An additional 181 pump boat operators in Caubian Island were supported through a cash-for-work programme. The assistance aimed to offset the financial strain caused by soaring fuel prices. The realigned funds provided immediate relief to hundreds of affected workers. Fishermen and banca operators now have some financial breathing room amid ongoing fuel price increases. The city’s decision to repurpose the festival budget reflects a shift in priorities during economic challenges.
