One problem small fishermen in the Philippines often face is preserving their unsold catch for later consumption or sale.
While dried fish has become the prime method of preserving unsold fish among small fishing communities in the Philippines, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) believes that these small fishermen could also use proven technologies for other methods of fish preservation.
Recently, the DOST turned over fish canning equipment to a fisherfolk association in Borongan City, Eastern Samar to support the establishment of a fish processing enterprise and improve the livelihood of local fishing communities.
The Cabong Mandaragat Association (CMA) became the main beneficiary of the project, which aims to enhance the association's fish processing capabilities, promote value-added fishery products, minimize post-harvest losses, and create additional livelihood and employment opportunities.
According to local officials, this is the first-ever fish canning factory established in Eastern Samar.
The local government unit of Borongan City also assisted by funding the canning facility.
Floila Jane Quitorio, science research specialist of the DOST Eastern Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office, led the turnover ceremony on behalf of Provincial Director Arnaldo Amosco Jr.
Representing the city government were City Cooperative Development Office head Cynthia Arceño and lawyer Celestino Cabato, who attended on behalf of Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda.
“I encourage the association members to make the most of the project, emphasizing that the facility offers an opportunity to increase their income and improve their livelihoods,” Quitorio said.
The City Cooperative Development Office, which assisted the association in its registration, also urged members to pursue the establishment of the enterprise despite the challenges involved.
Cabato, for his part, assured the association of the city government's continued support for livelihood and community development initiatives.
The DOST said the project is expected to expand the association's fish processing operations, improve market opportunities for locally produced fishery products, and provide additional income sources through the application of science and technology.
(With report from PNA/OpinYon News Team)
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