LIVELIHOOD TRAINING ON FISH NUGGETS AND SWEET DRIED ANCHOVIES EMPOWERS YOUNG FISHERFOLKS IN MERCEDES – BARANGAY 6 BASE GROUP

As part of the ongoing efforts to build sustainable and dignified livelihood opportunities for young fisherfolks, the Mercedes Young Fisherfolks Association (MYFA) – Barangay 6 Base Group held a Livelihood Skills Training and Development session on fish processing, focusing on fish nuggets and sweet dried anchovies (minatamis na tuyong dilis). The training took place on October 14, 2025, at the BFAR Building in Mercedes, Camarines Norte.

This initiative was made possible through the support of the DTI Mercedes Negosyo Center, in partnership with MYFA. It aims to strengthen the capacity of young fisherfolk to create alternative sources of income, lessening their dependence on unstable fishing activities and enabling them to support their families and communities.

Mr. Joshua Velaro, a trainer from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), led the hands-on workshop and demonstrated the step-by-step preparation of the products. He was joined by Ms. Hermalyn Jordan, DTI Business Counselor, and Mr. Telly Zaldua, Center Manager, who offered technical guidance and support throughout the activity.

The training brought together young leaders and members of MYFA, with MYFA President Ronnie R. Cereno at the forefront. More than just learning skills, the activity became a space where young fisherfolk recognized their capacity to take collective action and create solutions to the challenges of unemployment and low income in their communities.

For MYFA, this activity is part of a broader vision of empowering young people to organize, build sustainable livelihoods, and work together for a more just and dignified future for fisherfolk communities.