By MCenas

OZAMIS CITY, Misamis Occidental — To strengthen the capacity of fisherfolk organizations and empower them towards sustainable management of their livelihood projects, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 10–Special Area for Agricultural Development (BFAR-10 SAAD) Program Phase 2, concluded the series of Leadership Development and Financial Management Trainings in seven identified municipalities of Misamis Occidental. 

The training caravan started in the Municipality of  Don Victoriano and continued in the Municipalities of Bonifacio, Baliangao, Sinacaban, Sapang Dalaga, Concepcion, and Panaon, gathering fisherfolk associations under SAAD Program Phase 2 from across the Province.

Throughout the sessions, the participants engaged in practical and interactive discussions led by Ding Gilmar Subsuban, District Fishery Technician Ⅰ (DFT), shared valuable insights on leadership development, while Ms. Shennie U. Galindo, Aquaculturist I, and Mr. Jhonrey C. Barrientos, Aquaculturist II, emphasized the importance of building strong organizations and identifying the key traits of responsible leaders and members. 

Additionally, Mr. Gil C. Saren, SAAD Area Coordinator, highlighted the role of collective action in ensuring the long-term success of association-led projects, while Ms. Marilou Cenas, SAAD Report Officer, discussed the fundamentals of basic financial management—covering topics such as transparency, accountability, and proper record-keeping, which equip participants with essential tools to strengthen their associations’ financial systems and ensure the sustainability of their resources.

The series of training sessions aimed not only to impart knowledge but also to cultivate confidence among fisherfolk leaders and members, preparing them to manage both  organizational and financial aspects of their livelihood enterprises under the SAAD Program Phase II.

By the end of the sessions, participants expressed their appreciation, noting that the training inspired them to be more responsible leaders, active members, and forward-thinking stewards of their organizations.

This initiative forms part of BFAR-10 SAAD’s continuing mission to build empowered and self-sustaining fisherfolk associations that can contribute to food security and economic growth in Misamis Occidental.