The Fisheries Management Area-Coordinating Unit-Cordillera Administrative Region (FCU-CAR) finally kicks off implementation of the Philippine Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency (FishCoRe) Project after the proposed sub-projects were granted no objection letter.
Before beneficiaries can receive project inputs of their proposed Fish Mart project, two fisherfolk associations have already undergone a two-day Specialized Training on the Operation and Management of their approved project. Said associations were the Palangueño Fisherfolks Association in San Quintin, and the Katribu Fisherfolk and Farmers Association in San Juan, Abra which are both beneficiaries of the FISHCORE’s MARLIN subcomponent 2.1 or the Modern and Resilient Livelihood Investment’s Fishers’ Livelihood Diversification and Development.
The training aims to equip them with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to ensure effective operation, sound management, and the long-term sustainability of the project. The Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) as part of the training was highlighted where participants engaged in community mapping, seasonal calendars, institutional diagramming, and problem tree analysis. These activities allowed beneficiaries to assess their local fisheries conditions, identify challenges such as declining fish catch and limited market access, and ensure that the Fish Mart project responds to community needs.
Moreover, fisherfolk beneficiaries were taught proper fish handling and cold chain management, which emphasizes food safety, quality preservation, and reduction of post-harvest losses. As well as the importance of proper icing techniques, the difference between fresh and stale fish, and best practices in handling fishery products to maintain consumer trust and product value. The training further covered organizational development and management, highlighting the roles and responsibilities of officers and members, as well as the importance of clear rules and accountability in managing Fish Mart as a community-based enterprise.
During the event, the project inputs to be provided were also presented, including freezer units, insulated cooler boxes, weighing scales, display racks, fish stall equipment, as well as various fresh fish and processed products.
Further, it was emphasized that the Fish Mart Project will provide a more stable livelihood option for fisherfolk while improving access to affordable fish and fishery products in remote communities. Local officials and the association presidents expressed their gratitude for the initiative, noting that the training equipped beneficiaries with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure the sustainable operation of the Fish Mart projects they will set to receive.
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