FISH Visayas 2

Starting situation

The Philippines is one of the most dynamic economies in Southeast Asia, but it continues to be plagued by social inequality, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, and climate change. Around half of the fishermen in the Central Visayas live in poverty. Community fisheries are crucial for nutrition and income, but suffer from low productivity, habitat degradation, illegal fishing, weak post-harvest and distribution systems, and insufficient support from local administrations.

Local government agencies are legally responsible for fisheries management and the protection of marine resources, but struggle with limited capacity, resources and knowledge to adequately support fisheries associations and small entrepreneurs. Against this background, the project aimed to strengthen the capacities of fishing families, small and medium-sized enterprises and local institutions along the value chains, stabilise incomes and promote the sustainable use of coastal resources.

Goal

Sustainable improvement of the income situation of fishing families and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises along the relevant value chains.

RESULTS

• 9,872 fishermen strengthened – in responsible entrepreneurship, processing and sustainable resource conservation

• 5 new professional profiles including curriculum developed

• 153 young people successfully trained – in cooperation with companies and educational institutions

• 14 innovative products developed to make fishery products more durable and increase value creation

• 124 small businesses trained in digital marketing

• 85,000 mangrove seedlings planted to protect 25 hectares of coastline and secure fish stocks

• 25 marine protected areas secured with management plans

Project:
2022 – 2025

Project budget:
€1.81 million

Partner organisations:
CCCI, BCCI, SCCI, DCCCO, DOST, DTI, DA

Country:
Philippines

Funder:
BMZ