The FishCore project, specifically Modern and Resilient Livelihood Investment (MARLIN) Subcomponent 2.1 conducted a crucial meeting on February 20-21, 2025. Attendees included the FMA6 Coordinating Unit 1, the RPIU, LGUs and fisherfolk association proposed beneficiaries.

The primary objective was the finalization of the livelihood plans, Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs), and subproject livelihood and social safeguard checklist of requirements for zonal projects.

Regional Director Rosario Segundina P. Gaerlan’s presence underscored the meeting’s importance. She emphasized the critical role in ensuring the successful implementation of the project aimed at diversifying and strengthening fisherfolk livelihoods, expressing gratitude for participants’ dedication and optimism for the projects’ success.

The first session featured presentations on livelihood and ESS requirements, key components of subproject proposals, and an overview of the ESMPs. This was followed by presentations from the proponent LGUs and FCAs on their submitted requirements, for the review of the RPIU, FCU1 MARLIN Focal Remely Lachica; 2.1 Focal Benjie Oboza; ESS Focal Atty. Jerick Christian Dagdagan; SS Focal Henry Q. Canlas, Jr.; and the Provincial Fisheries Officers/personnel.

Following the presentations, workshops and consultations with technical reviewers were held to thoroughly discuss the proposals.

The event concluded with a synthesis of the discussions and the formulation of a clear path for the successful implementation of livelihood projects under the MARLIN component.

LGUs in attendance represented Pangasinan (Dasol and Bolinao); La Union (Bacnotan, City of San Fernando, Bauang, and Sto. Tomas); and Ilocos Norte (Pasuquin and Laoag City).

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.