The FishCore project’s FMA6 Coordinating Unit 1 (FCU1), through the Modern and Resilient Livelihood Investment (MARLIN) Subcomponent 2.3 Aquaculture & Fisheries Infrastructure, completed a four-day training (February 18-21, 2025) on comprehensive infrastructure development. This training equipped local government units (LGUs), fisherfolk beneficiaries, FCU1, and Regional Project Implementation Unit (RPIU) personnel with essential knowledge on all aspects of proposed infrastructure projects. This included design, operations and maintenance of warehouses, ice plants, cold hubs, processing plants, fish ports, and common storage facilities.

The initial session emphasized the critical importance of careful site selection and environmental assessment for the project including discussions on relevant regulations and standards for protected areas. Subject matter experts included Cora Marie G. Pugal, Development Management Officer IV from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Protected Area Management Board (DENR-PAMB), and Engr. Rowell G. Lipadan, Senior Environmental Management Specialist from the DENR – Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).

Atty. Jerick Christian P. Dagdagan, FCU1 Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS) Focal, then gave a presentation on the necessary tenurial instruments (legal agreements and permits) for both public and private lands.

Further sessions covered the preparation of feasibility studies, detailed engineering designs (DED), programs of work, and the operations and maintenance of infrastructure projects. Engr. Amie Tacla, a representative from the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP), a World Bank-funded initiative, shared valuable insights and suggestions for ensuring the FishCore project’s success.

The training also addressed food safety for ensuring readiness once infrastructure is approved and established, and fisheries marketing strategies. Presentations on food handling and processing were delivered by Kryzyl Gee C. Ali of the Fisheries Inspection and Quarantine Unit (FIQU) and Regina C. Baltazar of the Fisheries Production and Support Services Division (FPSSD) from BFAR1.

Following each session, an open forum allowed participants to ask questions and seek clarifications.

Regional Director Rosario Segundina P. Gaerlan emphasized the broader implication of the training, highlighting that acquired knowledge and skills will not serve only for project management but also as a pathway to economic opportunities, improved food security, and a brighter future in the community.

Remely B. Lachica, Head of MARLIN in FCU1, concluded the training by emphasizing the nature of infrastructure projects and the importance of having designated area for construction. She noted the collaborative nature of the project, acknowledging the learning experience for all involved.

LGUs present during the program were Pasuquin and Laoag City of Ilocos Norte; Caoayan, Ilocos Sur; Sual, Dasol, Infanta, and Anda of Pangasinan.

FishCoRe is a seven-year project funded by the World Bank, which promotes a comprehensive approach to fisheries governance with a specific focus on the social and ecological dimensions of the Philippines’ waters and its resources, in partnership with local government units. This project aims to bring benefits to approximately half a million fishers and stakeholders nationwide.