𝗦𝗔𝗡 𝗔𝗚𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗡, 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗼 𝗱𝗲𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝗿 (𝗝𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝟯𝟭) — The Modern and Resilient Livelihood Component (MARLIN) of the FishCoRe project of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) convened five Fisheries Coordinating Units (FCUs) under Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 9 for a midyear review and assessment from July 23-26, 2024, in Britania, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur. The event aimed to evaluate midyear performance and strategize for the remainder of the year.

The activity focused on assessing the aquaculture and fisheries infrastructure projects under MARLIN’s sub-component 2.3. Key proposals included the rehabilitation and construction of facilities for fisheries landing, storage, common post-harvest services, warehouses, fish processing, and laboratory testing.

FCUs 7, 8, 9, 10, and 13 shared common challenges faced so far, notably conflicting schedules and tenurial claims at proposed project sites, among others. These issues have impacted the timely implementation of various projects, prompting a need for coordinated efforts and strategic planning.

To ensure comprehensive and accurate data collection, participants refined the scoping tool that FCUs will use during site visits to proposed project locations. This improved tool aims to capture data that is both appropriate and inclusive, enhancing the decision-making process for future projects.

BFAR-X and RFIU-9 Director Edward Yasay addressed the participants, urging them to continue their dedicated efforts. He highlighted the significant benefits the FishCoRe project will bring to local fishers, emphasizing the importance of the work being done.

The midyear review and assessment session concluded with a renewed commitment from all FCUs to overcome challenges and achieve the project’s goals, ensuring the continued development and resilience of the fisheries sector in the region.(𝙈𝙋𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙖//𝙁𝙞𝙨𝙝𝘾𝙤𝙍𝙚)