The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has turned over fish canning equipment to a fisherfolk association in Borongan City in Eastern Samar to support the establishment of a fish processing enterprise and improve the livelihood of local fishing communities.
The equipment was formally turned over Wednesday to the Cabong Mandaragat Association (CMA) following the signing of a memorandum of agreement among the DOST, the Borongan City government, the barangay local government unit, and association officials.
Funded through the DOST Grants-in-Aid Program, the project aims to enhance the association’s fish processing capabilities, promote value-added fishery products, minimize post-harvest losses, and create additional livelihood and employment opportunities.
The Borongan City government, meanwhile, funded the construction of the canning facility, which project organizers described as the first fish canning factory in Eastern Samar.
Floila Jane Quitorio, science research specialist of the DOST Eastern Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office, led the turnover ceremony on behalf of Provincial Director Arnaldo Amosco Jr.
Representing the city government were City Cooperative Development Office head Cynthia Arceño and lawyer Celestino Cabato, who attended on behalf of Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda.
“I encourage the association members to make the most of the project, emphasizing that the facility offers an opportunity to increase their income and improve their livelihoods,” Quitorio said.
The City Cooperative Development Office, which assisted the association in its registration, also urged members to pursue the establishment of the enterprise despite the challenges involved.
Cabato, for his part, assured the association of the city government’s continued support for livelihood and community development initiatives.
The DOST said the project is expected to expand the association’s fish processing operations, improve market opportunities for locally produced fishery products, and provide additional income sources through the application of science and technology. (PNA)
