Cordova, Cebu – On May 15, 2024, 48 (forty-eight) fisherfolk from Pundok sa Progresibong Mananagat sa Bangbang (PPMB) and solo mothers from the Cordova Solo Mothers and Parents Association completed a two-day training program on Bangus deboning and smoked Bangus processing. Initiated through the FISH Visayas Project, the initiative aimed to enhance participants’ skills in efficient post-harvest methods. The ultimate goal is to empower fishers to explore entrepreneurial opportunities, add value to their produce, and innovate new products for the market.

The training program commenced with a theoretical session covering basic food safety, hygiene practices, and essential guidelines in fish processing. Participants were then equipped with the necessary materials and received hands-on guidance on their proper use. The practical segment followed, focusing on the intricate deboning of 30 kilograms of fresh milkfish, a process that spanned 4-5 hours. Subsequently, trainers guided participants through the brining process, preparing the fish for the next stage of processing.

On the second day, trainers conducted thorough inspections to ensure all deboned and brined bangus were properly prepared for the subsequent steps. This day was dedicated to mastering the art of smoking fish. Participants spent 2 hours marinating the fish before sun-drying them for an hour, after which they were carefully placed inside the smoking chamber. The smoking process, lasting 2 hours, involved periodic shuffling of shelves to achieve uniform results.

This structured approach ensured that participants not only learned theoretical concepts but also gained practical skills crucial for producing quality smoked bangus. By the end of the training, the participants were able to showcase their finished products to the rest of the members and people from the community. The participants took pride in their output and happily brought it with them home to taste.

In a bid to establish alternative livelihoods for PPMB members, the FISH Visayas project equipped the people’s organization with a set of tools and supplies for smoked bangus processing. This initiative aims to sustain their processing capabilities beyond the training sessions.

The successful conclusion of the training program was the result of collaborative efforts supported by key partners of the FISH Visayas Project. These included the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Cebu Provincial Fishery Office, the local government unit of Cordova, and the AFOS Foundation.

Ultimately, the training program aspires to improve livelihoods and increase income opportunities for members of the fisherfolk association. Moving forward, the project aims to implement the program beyond PPMB and onboard the Kapunungan sa Mananagat sa Ibabao and Pilipog Fisherfolks Association in Cordova.

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The Training on Bangus Deboning and Smoked Bangus Processing aspires to achieve Result Area 1: Training for Fishermen and MSMEs, and Result Area 3: Market Access of the FISH Visayas Project.