Related News
All protected areas of the Philippines have the mandate to protect and advance the rights of the Filipino people to a balanced and healthful environment. As one of the largest protected areas of the country, Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (TSPS) and its Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) is dedicated to ensuring the protection and conservation of the protected area as well as to improve the socio-economic conditions of its stakeholders through promotion of biodiversity-friendly enterprises (BDFE). With this, the office aims that the natural resources of the protected area are used in a sustainable manner and the stakeholders surrounding the protected area gains equitable access to its diverse marine resources.
On April 22-26, 2024, the TSPS-PAMO through its BDFE Unit enhanced three (3) People’s Organizations (PO) in Alcantara Cebu - Palanas Alcantara Fishermen’s Association (PAFA), Lawis–Baybay Fishermen’s Association (LABAYFA), and Polo Fishermen’s Association (POFA). This training activity aims to enhance the community towards sustainable enterprises and to increase their appreciation of biodiversity through its ecosystem services.
The training program, organized by TSPS-PAMO personnel led by BDFE Unit Head Ms. Joyce Sumayang, was geared towards assisting each POs in drafting each of their business plans tailored to their specific enterprise. The PAMO personnel guided each POs to ensure that the essential components and expectations of their business plans were thoroughly met.
The training was programmed to have engaging and immersive exercises aimed at drafting key sections of their business plans which included developing their brief yet very informative executive summary that articulates the significance of their business to biodiversity. Additionally, the training included a thorough cost and return analyses where each POs receive additional knowledge and support in formulating financial projections that outlines the operational and technical aspects of their enterprises.
Moreover, the training also specified crucial considerations such as identification of necessary training interventions needed per POs, understanding the gaps in technology and labor requirements, and implementing effective waste disposal systems. Furthermore, the program also covered guidance into the necessary legal documents, and the development of sustainability plans tailored to the long-term success of each of their enterprises.
At the end of the program, the team is expecting that each POs will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to develop a strong business plan aligned with the preservation and conservation of TSPS.
Marcial Macasaol, the president of the Polo Fishermen’s Association shared their organization’s mission which is to unite each member of the association and to raise their milkfish products in order to make the prices of fishes in the market accessible to all.
“Maghugpong ang mga tagsa-tagsa nga miyembro sa assosasyon. Unsa may produksyon? Pagpadako sa buhi ug produkto nga bangus para mapaubsan ang presyo sa isda nga sa karon taas na kaayo.” - Marcial Macasaol during his presentation in the TSPS BDFE Enhancement Training in Badian, Cebu.
Additionally, during his speech, Marcial Macasaol is beyond grateful to the efforts exerted by DENR TSPS-PAMO in guiding their organization highlighting how this guidance has encouraged the inactive members of their association to actively participate in its activities.
"Nya maayo gani nagpasalamat ta sa Tañon Strait, TSPS na sila na gyu’y ning guide sa atoa nga diri namo. Mao to nga nibalik ug ka-active ang mga miyembro sa Polo fishermen's association.” - Marcial Macasaol, during the TSPS BDFE Enhancement Training in Badian Cebu.
Ms. Sumayang, the head of TSPS BDFE Unit, is optimistic about the approval of the drafted biodiversity-friendly business plans from each people’s organization. She is hopeful that the approval will secure inclusion in the next tranche of BDFE Financial Assistance.
