Summary of "I-Witness: ‘Isang Banyerang Isda’, dokumentaryo ni Kara David (full episode)"
The documentary "Isang Banyerang Isda" by Kara David explores the harsh realities faced by the fishing community on San Ramon Island in Rapu-apo, Bicol. The story centers on Biboy, a 13-year-old boy who, despite his young age, is forced to work at sea to support his struggling family. Biboy’s father, Vicente, once used traditional and destructive fishing methods like dynamite, which contributed to the depletion of fish stocks around the island. Now, they rely on more traditional but less effective fishing techniques, often catching only small, low-value fish.
The film highlights the economic hardships of the fishermen, who must travel far into the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean to find enough fish to sustain their families. Even after long, exhausting fishing trips, the catch is often insufficient to cover expenses or provide adequate food. The fishermen use methods such as attracting fish with light at night and setting nets around buoys, but these efforts yield minimal returns.
Biboy’s family struggles with poverty and health issues, such as his younger brother Jim Boy’s untreated back injury due to lack of medical funds. Despite these challenges, the community remains resilient, participating in cultural events like the Penya Fransya festival to honor the Virgin of Penya Fransa, the protector of fishermen.
The documentary also touches on the environmental consequences of overfishing and destructive practices, suggesting that the sea’s dwindling resources are a form of nature’s retribution. Biboy dreams of becoming a police officer to help stop illegal fishing methods like dynamiting, hoping for a future where the ocean’s bounty can be restored.
Overall, the film paints a poignant picture of a community whose fate is deeply intertwined with the sea—once abundant but now suffering from depletion—highlighting the urgent need for sustainable fishing practices and social support for vulnerable families.
Presenters/Contributors:
- Kara David (documentary presenter and reporter)
Category
News and Commentary
