LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte, May 2, 2026 – More than 700 fisher folk received income aid from the Department of National Defense (DND), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and the provincial government of Ilocos Norte as support for the no-sail period during the conduct of this year’s Exercise Balikatan.

In a dialogue with coastal communities held today at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena, DND Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr., together with Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, led the distribution of family food packs and financial assistance worth four days of income to a total of 734 fisher folk beneficiaries – 366 from Paoay, 273 from Burgos, and 95 from Laoag City.

“Ito po ay obligasyon namin sa inyo. Ang tulong (ay) obligasyon kasi trabaho ng gobyerno na pangalagaan ang lahat ng Pilipino,” said DND Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. He emphasized that the regular conduct of large-scale exercises of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with partner countries is also a continuing learning process, including understanding the needs of the affected areas and communities.

As exercises are conducted in different parts of the country, Secretary Teodoro shared that his primary directive is to hold dialogue and coordination with the residents and local governments, and to ensure that these communities are left in a better condition after these exercises.

Gov. Araneta Marcos expressed gratitude for the prompt action and delivery of assistance for the coastal communities of Ilocos Norte affected by Exercise Balikatan. Due to the increased movement of air, land and maritime assets, a no-sail zone will take effect until May 6, as a precaution and to ensure civilian safety during the conduct of the military drills.

Secretary Teodoro explained the importance of joint military training with partners to increase the country’s deterrence and uphold our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and protect the livelihood resources of coastal communities.