A training on Tuna Post-Harvest Handling, Catch Documentation and Traceability, Quality Upgrading, and Food Safety was held for the members of the Lagonoy Gulf Tuna Fishers Association, beneficiaries of a 62-footer fiberglass boat awarded by BFAR5. The training, conducted by the Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division (RFTFCD) in partnership with the World Wide Fund’s (WWF) Sustainable Tuna Partnership (STP) Program 2, took place at the RFTFCD Training Hall in Tayhi, Tabaco City, from September 11-13, 2024.
Resource speakers from BFAR Central Office, FPSSD and FMRED covered key topics including the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries, Seafood Safety from Farm to Fork (HACCP Principles), Catch Monitoring and Catch Documentation Scheme (CDS), and the requirements for certification based on BAC 251, s. 2015. The current Catch Monitoring and Documentation Scheme in Lagonoy Gulf and fish handling practices were also discussed.
A field activity on tuna fish sampling and quality grading was held at three buying stations at Tabaco Port, attended by representatives of the Lagonoy Gulf Tuna Fishers Association, FGL Fish Trading personnel, and RFTFCD Chief Joelle M. Benavidez, alongside the training team.
Participants also took part in a Financial Literacy Program through the interactive “Fish N’ Learn” game, which aimed to enhance their understanding of financial services, such as savings accounts, insurance, and loans. The activity was designed to empower fisherfolk to make sound financial decisions and avoid debt traps or risky investments.
Elizaldy C. Boboyo of the Lagonoy Gulf Tuna Fishers Association expressed his gratitude, saying, “Our members are very thankful for this training. We have learned so much, and we appreciate the continued support of BFAR and WWF in helping us grow as tuna fishers.”
Source: BFAR Bicol