Implementing the National Bangus Development Program (NBDP), the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Regional Fisheries Office 1 conducted training on Postharvest technologies and Regulatory in Bottling for the fisherfolk association beneficiaries in Baroro, Bacnotan, La Union on January 21-24, 2025.

Bacnotan Mayor Divina Fontanilla delivered an inspiring message to the participants, urging them to take good care of the project provided by the bureau. She emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration, encouraging everyone to work together as one community to ensure the success of these initiatives.

Jessie Cabagbag, President of Asosasyon ti Mangngalap Ken Mannalon ti Baroro, Bacnotan, La Union Inc., expressed his heartfelt gratitude to BFAR-RFO1 for its unwavering efforts in supporting their stakeholders and helping improve their livelihood. โ€œNaimpusuan nga panagyaman mi iti BFAR iti daytoy nga gundaway nga naitalek iti asosasyon mi,โ€ Cabagbag said.

The training gathered 30 participants who undergo social preparation through profiling, values enhancement, and in-depth discussions on organization and development.

Participants are introduced to food safety guidelines, proper fish handling practices, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and the basic concepts and principles of HALAL.

As the demand for milkfish products continues to grow locally and internationally, it becomes increasingly essential for fisherfolk and processors to comply with strict food safety regulations and export requirements.

Topics, including Food Safety Regulations and Standards, Transboundary Requirements, and Traceability, are also comprehensively discussed during the training.

The participants also learned about the technology behind Bangus bottling, led by the learning service providers from BFAR1’s Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division, Fisheries Inspection and Quarantine Unit, and Fisheries Production Support and Services Division.

Interactive lectures and workshops on packaging and labeling followed this.

The Fish’ N Learn game, incorporated to make their learning experience engaging, equipped participants with business skills, as it includes financial management discussions, covering topics on costing, pricing, and marketing products.

Chief-RFTFCD Atty. Girly G. Dela Peรฑa, along with OIC-Provincial Fisheries Officer/NBDP Regional Focal Antonieta D. Evangelista, OPAG representative Leony Gagni, and Municipal Agriculturist Dra. Divina Gracia Apigo also attended the training to ensure the participants have the necessary skills to sustain and grow their livelihood.

This initiative not only enhances the capabilities of the participants but also supports the production of high-quality bangus products that meet global standards.