AFOS Foundation - Philippines

Congratulations to the 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀 supported by the 𝗙𝗜𝗦𝗛 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘆𝗮𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁!

Thank you, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), our partner companies and academic institutions for your dedication to uplifting our local workforce.

𝗞𝗔𝗚𝗔𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗔 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮 𝗕𝗮𝗿 & 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁

𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗕𝗼𝗵𝗼𝗹 – On August 13, 2025, the Kapunongan sa Gagmayng Mananagat sa Saguise (KAGAMASA) officially forged a partnership with Coclea Bar and Restaurant through a consignment agreement that will bring Pitogo Island Snacks closer to the public.

Under the agreement, Coclea Bar and Restaurant will serve as a consignment outlet for the display and sale of these community-made products, providing a new avenue for visibility among local patrons and tourists. The signing marks a significant milestone in strengthening market access and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for the producers of Pitogo Island Snacks.

The consignment arrangement outlines clear responsibilities, pricing, and terms that ensure equitable benefit-sharing between the partners. This partnership aims to increase the recognition of Pitogo Island Snacks within Bohol’s growing food and tourism scene while expanding income-generating opportunities for the community producers.

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This initiative, supported through the FISH Visayas Project implemented by AFOS Foundation in partnership with the Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry, DA-BFAR VII, DOST VII, and DTI VII, aims to strengthen the market readiness and business linkages of MSMEs and fisherfolk associations in Central Visayas.

Stay updated on the latest from the FISH Visayas Project: https://fishvisayas.afosfoundation.org/news/

Learn more about AFOS Foundation, the lead implementing organization: https://afos-stiftung.de

𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗹: 𝗕𝗼𝗵𝗼𝗹’𝘀 𝗠𝗦𝗠𝗘𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗢𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗖𝘆𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗕𝗼𝗵𝗼𝗹 — On August 13, 2025, 53 participants representing 40 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) successfully completed the 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝘆𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗛𝘆𝗴𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗢𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 through the FISH Visayas Project.

As more businesses transition toward digital platforms, MSMEs increasingly face cybersecurity threats such as phishing, smishing, malware, data breaches, and identity theft. To address these challenges, the training aimed to strengthen digital resilience and equip entrepreneurs with practical tools to protect their businesses and personal data in today’s technology-driven landscape.

The morning session focused on understanding and applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business operations. Participants learned about the potential of AI tools for marketing automation, customer engagement, data management, and productivity enhancement, while also gaining awareness of the ethical and security risks associated with AI usage. Through guided discussions, they explored how responsible AI adoption can drive efficiency and innovation in small enterprises.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted to Cyber Hygiene for Businesses and Organizations—a practical, hands-on session that introduced key strategies to recognize and prevent common cyber threats. Facilitators demonstrated password security checks, phishing identification, safe use of public Wi-Fi, device protection, and data back-up protocols. Participants also practiced developing a basic Risk Management Action Plan, helping them prioritize potential cybersecurity risks and identify corresponding mitigation measures.

The training fostered proactive engagement, with participants sharing personal experiences of encountering scams such as vishing (voice phishing) and smishing (SMS phishing) and learning how to respond to such incidents effectively. Many participants expressed appreciation for the session’s relevance, especially as they continue expanding their businesses online.

This capacity-building initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of FISH Visayas Project partners — AFOS Foundation, the Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the DTI Region 7 Central Visayas. The activity was also conducted in partnership with the APAC Cybersecurity FundProject, supported by Google.org and implemented by the PCCI Human Resources Development Foundation.

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The Training on Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Hygiene for Businesses and Organizations contributes to the FISH Visayas Project’s objectives under Result Area 1 (Training for Fisherfolk and MSMEs) and Result Area 3 (Market Access)—empowering local enterprises to navigate digital transformation securely and sustainably.

Stay updated on the latest from the FISH Visayas Project: https://fishvisayas.afosfoundation.org/news/

Learn more about AFOS Foundation, the lead implementing organization: https://afos-stiftung.de

𝗣𝗔𝗖 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲: 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗜𝗦𝗛 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘆𝗮𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁

𝗖𝗲𝗯𝘂 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗖𝗲𝗯𝘂 – The FISH Visayas Project Advisory Committee (PAC) convened for its fifth and final assembly on August 7, 2025, at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VII Office in Cebu City. The session marked a major milestone in the project’s three-year implementation, serving as both a comprehensive review of accomplishments from July 2022 to 2025 (phase 2) and a platform to validate the Procedures Manual for the FISH Visayas Project Good Quality Certification - the Blue Check Level 1: Food Safety and Quality Certification Program.

The PAC, composed of key representatives from government agencies, the private sector, and project partners, continues to serve as the policy and strategic direction-setting body of the FISH Visayas Project. It ensures that all interventions remain relevant and responsive to the needs of the project’s focus areas across Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.

𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀
During the meeting, members reviewed, validated, and provided feedback on the Blue Check Certification Manual, which will serve as the foundation for piloting the program among selected micro and small enterprises in the region.

The committee agreed to hold a follow-up meeting to finalize details of the manual, particularly on:
1. The leveling of the Blue Check mark.
2. The creation of a Level 2 certification that will focus on market readiness and competitiveness; and
3. The establishment of a Blue Economic Council to sustain implementation and policy support.

PAC members were also apprised of the project’s achievements, results, and milestones across all components and areas. Their insights and recommendations will guide the completion of final project activities and the development of the Project Accomplishment Report.

𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
The fifth PAC meeting gathered 16 participants, including six official committee members and representatives from the AFOS Foundation, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, BFAR Central Visayas, Department of Science and Technology VII and the DTI Region 7 Central Visayas

Key members in attendance included:
Mr. Mario Ruinata, Regional Director, DA-BFAR Region VII
Dr. Tristan Abando, Regional Director, DOST Region VII
Ms. Esperanza “Hope” Melgar, Regional Director, DTI Region VII
Atty. Gilbert Arbon, OIC–Assistant Regional Director, DOST Negros Island Region
Ms. Joy Lorena Segismar, Executive Director, CCCI
Ms. Yvette Hope P. Labus, Project Manager and Philippine Resident Representative, AFOS Foundation

𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀
As a result of the discussions, the FISH Visayas Project team identified priority activities to be completed by September 2025, including finalizing the Procedures Manual for the Blue Check Level 1: Food Safety and Quality Certification Program and consolidating means of verification for the project accomplishment report.

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The 5th and final PAC Meeting underscores the project’s commitment to institutionalize its gains and ensure the sustainability of its initiatives—strengthening the fisheries value chain, improving food safety standards, and supporting the continued growth of small-scale fisheries enterprises in Central Visayas.

Stay updated on the latest from the FISH Visayas Project: https://fishvisayas.afosfoundation.org/news/

Learn more about AFOS Foundation, the lead implementing organization: https://afos-stiftung.de

𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗼𝗵𝗼𝗹’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗲𝗳𝘀: 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗯𝗸𝘂𝗯𝗮𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗕𝗼𝗵𝗼𝗹 — On June 16, 2025, a biophysical assessment of the Kinubkuban Reef Marine Fish Sanctuary was conducted through the FISH Visayas Project, in partnership with local and provincial stakeholders.

Located in Barangay Taloto, Tagbilaran City, the six-hectare marine protected area (MPA) was established on November 20, 2020, by the Tagbilaran City Government with the support of the FISH Visayas Project. The recent assessment aimed to determine the status and trends of the sanctuary’s resources using standard scientific methodologies, providing a clearer picture of coral reef health and biodiversity within the protected area.

The 45-minute underwater survey revealed that the reef remains in generally good condition, with thriving coral growth and diverse marine species. However, the team observed marine debris and the presence of Crown-of-Thorns starfish, an invasive species known to damage corals. In response, the team underscored the need for continued monitoring, clean-up drives, public awareness, and targeted removal of the Crown-of-Thorns to maintain the reef’s ecological balance.

To further safeguard the area, the team recommended realigning sanctuary boundaries, installing informational signage, and enhancing community involvement in conservation initiatives. Visual documentation captured during the activity supports the call for immediate and coordinated actions to restore and sustain the outer reef zone.

As part of the maintenance component, the team also removed various forms of marine debris, including plastics, discarded fishing gear, glass bottles, and other non-biodegradable materials that pose threats to marine life. Boundary buoys were repaired and re-determined to ensure clear demarcation and visibility for both fishers and boat operators.

Alongside the biophysical survey, a 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 (𝗣𝗖𝗥𝗔) was also conducted, strengthening the capacity of local stakeholders, government agencies, and community members in monitoring and managing coastal resources. Participants gained hands-on experience in conducting ecological assessments, identifying key environmental indicators, and documenting site conditions.

The team’s follow-up ecosystem assessment covered mangrove, seagrass, and coral habitats. Results identified seven mangrove species, with Avicennia marina as the most dominant, followed by Rhizophora apiculata and Sonneratia alba. The presence of multiple species and natural saplings suggests healthy regeneration within the mangrove forest. The dominance of Avicennia marina also indicates that the site supports early-stage mangrove growth under saline and open conditions.

The findings reaffirm that mangroves are vital ecosystems—protecting coastlines from erosion, supporting marine life and local livelihoods, improving water quality, and acting as significant carbon sinks. Their diversity highlights the importance of continued conservation and restoration efforts to preserve these benefits for future generations.

This initiative was made possible through the collaboration of AFOS Foundation, Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO) – MPA Provincial Technical Working Group, CENRO, BFAR Central Visayas, Tagbilaran City Government - the City Agriculture and Veterinary Office (CAVO), and the Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry under the FISH Visayas Project.

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The Biophysical Assessment of the Kinubkuban Marine Sanctuary contributes to Result Area 4: Resource Protection of the FISH Visayas Project, furthering its mission to strengthen the sustainable management of marine ecosystems in Central Visayas.

Stay updated on the latest from the FISH Visayas Project: https://fishvisayas.afosfoundation.org/news/

Learn more about AFOS Foundation, the lead implementing organization: https://afos-stiftung.de

𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗘, 𝗔𝗙𝗢𝗦, 𝗖𝗖𝗖𝗜, 𝗙𝗣𝗗𝗜 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗠𝗢𝗨 𝘁𝗼 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 & 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗱, 𝗡𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘀 𝗢𝗰𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 — On August 5, 2025, partners from the public and private sectors formally sealed their commitment to advance workforce development in the seafood industry through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the implementation of the Seafood Plant Assistant Qualification under the Dual Education and Training (DET) Framework.

The MOU was signed between CITE Technical Institute, Inc., AFOS Foundation for Entrepreneurial Development Cooperation, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Foundation for People Development, Inc. (FPDI), with the support of the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental. The partnership reinforces institutional collaboration in ensuring the successful implementation of the DET program in the province.

Following the signing, 32 learners and 18 parents and guardians attended an orientation session designed to deepen their understanding of the DET program’s structure, training schedules, and the expectations for both school-based and company-based learning. The session also provided an overview of company policies, workplace etiquette, and key industry dos and don’ts—ensuring that learners are well-prepared to meet the standards and demands of the seafood processing sector.

The 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 qualification is tailored for employment in food manufacturing companies and aims to equip learners with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes aligned with industry standards. Graduates are expected to work with minimal supervision, perform operational tasks efficiently, uphold food safety and quality standards, and collaborate effectively within team environments.

Spanning 1,152 training hours (approximately six months or 24 weeks), the program integrates both theoretical instruction and practical application. Core competencies include operating and maintaining equipment such as filling and packing machines, boilers, and freezers; implementing workplace sanitation and waste management practices; performing warehouse and delivery operations; and supporting seafood production and quality control activities.

The program will be implemented under Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry - Assessment, Certification, and Accreditation Services (CCCI-ACAS) and will run from August 2025 to February 2026.

This initiative directly contributes to Result Area 2 (Dual Education and Training) of the FISH Visayas Project, underscoring the project’s commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry, and developing a competent, job-ready workforce for the seafood sector in the Visayas.

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Stay updated on the latest from the FISH Visayas Project: https://fishvisayas.afosfoundation.org/news/

Learn more about AFOS Foundation, the lead implementing organization: https://afos-stiftung.de

Our local partner in the Philippines, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry is mobilizing support and now accepting donations to aid in relief and recovery efforts for 𝗧𝘆𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗻𝗼 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗺𝘀.

For more details on this initiative, please refer to the information below.

𝐏𝐀𝐃𝐀𝐘𝐎𝐍 𝐂𝐄𝐁𝐔 | The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry is mobilizing support and now accepting donations to aid in relief and recovery efforts for 𝗧𝘆𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗻𝗼 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗺𝘀.

We welcome donations of food, water, hygiene kits, sleeping mats, blankets, and other essential relief items at the Cebu Chamber Centre, cor. Commerce & Industry Sts., North Reclamation Area, Cebu City (back of Robinsons Galleria Cebu)

Cash Donations:
𝗗𝗢𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗥 𝗔𝗖𝗖𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗧
Bank Name: RCBC
Account Name: Cebu Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc.
Account No.: 844-8002-927
Swift Code: RCBCPHMM # # #
Bank Code: 010280014
Branch Code: 448

𝗣𝗛𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗣𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗘 𝗣𝗘𝗦𝗢 𝗔𝗖𝗖𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗧
Bank Name: RCBC
Account Name: Cebu Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc.
Account No.: 0448 802 116

Kindly send a copy of your deposit slip to [email protected] / [email protected]

For coordination efforts, please contact:
Mary Ann - +639756540354
Ma.Rose – +917 325 2224
Jovit – +927 430 3233

𝗕𝗼𝗵𝗼𝗹 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗸 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗥𝗲-𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗼 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴

𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀. 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗼𝘀 𝗣. 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗶𝗮, 𝗕𝗼𝗵𝗼𝗹 — On June 15 and 18, 2025, seventy-one (71) fisherfolk from Brgy. Aguining and Saguise successfully completed the Re-echo Training on Basic Food Safety initiated through the FISH Visayas Project.

The training aimed to strengthen the food safety knowledge and practices of members of the Aguininghong Pundok sa Yanong Mananagat (APYM) and Kahugpungan sa Gagmay’ng Mananagat sa Saguise (KAGAMASA) — two newly established community-based food processors in Pres. Carlos P. Garcia (PCPG).

Both organizations are now venturing into value-added production. APYM has diversified its bangus aquaculture operations by producing bottled bangus, while KAGAMASA continues to develop its Pitogo Island Snacks line, featuring Seaweed Salvaro, Seaweed Chips, Fish Chips, and Bulad Polvoron. Notably, Pitogo Island Snacks products have undergone microbiological testing through the Department of Science and Technology VII and were endorsed for the Blue Check Level 1, an internal food safety and quality certification system initiated by the FISH Visayas Project.

In line with the people organization’s goal of attaining Food and Drug Administration (FDA) certification, the re-echo training introduced participants to the fundamentals of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP). The sessions were facilitated by food safety advocates from the two organizations, who had earlier completed the Food Safety training through the Bohol Food Safety Team.

Through practical sessions and knowledge sharing, participants gained a deeper understanding of hygiene standards, product handling, and safe food preparation. These are vital components in ensuring the quality and market readiness of their products.

This initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of FISH Visayas Project partners—AFOS Foundation, the Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Local Government Unit of Pres. Carlos P. Garcia, Bohol.

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The Re-echo Training on Basic Food Safety contributes to Result Area 1 (Training for Fisherfolk and MSMEs) and Result Area 3 (Market Access) of the FISH Visayas Project.

Stay updated on the latest from the FISH Visayas Project: https://fishvisayas.afosfoundation.org/news/

Learn more about AFOS Foundation, the lead implementing organization: https://afos-stiftung.de

𝗟𝗮 𝗟𝗶𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝗼 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵

𝗟𝗮 𝗟𝗶𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗱, 𝗡𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘀 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 – 17 micro and small enterprises in La Libertad completed a Training on Digital Marketing Platforms on June 6, 2025, through the FISH Visayas Project. The initiative aims to equip local entrepreneurs with the knowledge and confidence to navigate digital spaces, such as accepting online payments, handling e-wallet transactions, and marketing their products more effectively.

Beyond introducing participants to digital financial tools, the training also covered practical skills such as taking appropriate product photos, crafting engaging marketing messages, and building customer trust in online platforms. These skills are vital for MSMEs to strengthen their visibility, reach more customers, and adapt to the evolving market landscape.

The session was facilitated by Mr. Shem Silva of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Negros Oriental Provincial Office, who guided participants through hands-on exercises and shared practical insights on using digital platforms for business growth.

This training was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the FISH Visayas Project partners: the AFOS Foundation, DCCCO Multipurpose Cooperative, DTI Region 7 Negros Provincial Office, and the Municipality of La Libertad, Negros Oriental.

By supporting digital literacy and market access, the training contributes to Result Area 1 (Training for Fisherfolk and MSMEs) and Result Area 3 (Market Access) of the FISH Visayas Project, reinforcing the commitment to promote sustainable livelihood opportunities and business resilience among coastal communities in Central Visayas.

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Stay updated on the latest from the FISH Visayas Project: https://fishvisayas.afosfoundation.org/news/

Learn more about AFOS Foundation, the lead implementing organization: https://afos-stiftung.de

𝗦𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗸 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

𝗦𝗮𝗻 𝗝𝘂𝗮𝗻, 𝗦𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗷𝗼𝗿 - With the steady rise of bakery enterprises across the island, the Province of Siquijor continues to embrace technology-driven livelihoods that diversify income sources for local communities. Recognizing the need to sustain this growth, a specialized Training on Industrial Electro and Electrical Controllers Maintenance and Servicing of Bakery Equipment was recently held to equip fisherfolk and local bakers with the technical know-how to maintain and repair bakery machinery.

Conducted on May 29, the training focused on ensuring the long-term functionality and efficiency of ovens and electrical systems used in bakeries. By enhancing their technical capability, participants can minimize equipment downtime, maintain consistent product quality, and secure the sustainability of their bakery operations.

Four (4) fisherfolk from the Maite Resource Development Association (MRDA) successfully completed the training, which was facilitated by five (5) newly trained MRDA trainers—Johny Montoya, Junrey Montoya, Michael Taruc, Rogelio Marchan, and Arsel Lomoljo. The initiative reflects the growing capacity of local organizations to deliver technical trainings and share knowledge within their own communities.

The successful completion of the training was made possible through the collaboration of partners under the FISH Visayas Project, including the Siquijor Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (SCCII), DOST Siquijor PSTC, DTI Region 7 Siquijor Provincial Office, BFAR Central Visayas Siquijor Provincial Fishery Office, Municipality of San Juan - Siquijor, and the AFOS Foundation.

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This training contributes to the Result Area 1 (Training for Fisherfolk and MSMEs) of the FISH Visayas Project, which aims to strengthen local enterprises through capacity-building and technical training.