LAOAG CITY, April 9 -- Small-scale fisherfolk from Barangay Dilavo in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte have stopped braving the open seas to be able to feed their families.

Thanks to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), they are reaping the benefits of the "lambaklad" project.

Coined from the Filipino words "lambat" (net) and "baklad" (corral), the Japanese-inspired technology uses nets and ropes, instead of bamboo poles, laid down about 200 meters from the shore.

It is a sustainable system because, among others, the holes of the nets allow small fish to easily escape.

It is likewise environment-friendly because fishers use non-motorized flat boats and paddle to go to where the nets are. Fuel-powered boats are only for hauling ...