SAN MARCELINO, Zambales — Aboitiz Renewables Inc. and the Buhawen Bangka Association have signed an agreement providing fuel and insurance support to 35 boatmen who transport passengers across Mapanuepe Lake in San Marcelino, Zambales.

Under the memorandum of agreement, Aboitiz Renewables will provide an annual ₱500,000 fuel subsidy to the boatmen for the duration of the San Marcelino Floating Solar Power Plant’s operations.

The subsidy is intended to help offset fuel costs for local boat operators who provide transport services to residents and tourists visiting the lake.

The agreement also includes insurance assistance that the association may use to help members address health-related concerns.

Rolando Vergara, Aboitiz Renewables vice president for project development, signed the agreement for the company. Buhawen Bangka Association President Joaquin Servando, Secretary Marife Ladringan and Treasurer David Valencia signed for the association.

San Marcelino Mayor Elvis Ragadio Soria and councilors Louela Aquino and Darrel Labio witnessed the signing.

Servando said the support would benefit boatmen who travel long distances on the lake.

Vergara said the company and the local boatmen would be neighbors for the duration of the power plant’s operations and that safety on the lake would be a priority.

He also said the company would work to preserve the lake’s tourism appeal and the livelihoods of residents in Buhawen.

Photos courtesy of San Marcelino Public Information Office