Inspiring Anecdotes:

For More Fresh Catch

by Pepin

Fishermen are common characters found around Panay Island. Their everyday task is simple – to gather some fresh products of the sea. An uncomplicated mission it may seem, but it requires brawny arms to paddle the banka (boat), and a sturdy spirit that is prepared to work against the mighty forces of colossal waves.

Work starts before sunset sets in and the waiting period until midnight maybe a waste of time for some. But for the reapers of the sea, every second of their cold night quests counts. Their patience matters most, especially when the foodstuffs in the ocean are gradually becoming scarce.

At the end of their duty, a bountiful catch and a cooperative weather are indeed big blessings. These are little things that most city-dwellers nowadays fail to appreciate. It may be a waste of time and effort, but the small amount of funds in exchange for their catch goes a long way – education of their children, daily expenses of the family, and financial aid in times of bad health.

So, the next time you pass by the talipapa (wet market) and you heard vendors shouting lukus (squid), bangrus (milkfish), or hipon (shrimp), remember that these are some of the gifts of nature that our brave fishermen unwearyingly gathered for us, and we should be grateful enough for their courage.