La Libertad, Negros Oriental – A total of 39 fisherfolk, farmers, and fish processors completed a two-day Basic Entrepreneurship Training held from March 20 to 21, 2025. The training was organized through the FISH Visayas Project, with the goal of equipping small MSMEs in fisheries and food value chain-related sectors with essential entrepreneurial skills in financial management, marketing, and business operations.

Building Financial Literacy and Business Skills
Participants learned the core principles of running a small enterprise, including effective recordkeeping practices to monitor operations and track financial flow. They demonstrated an understanding of how to identify assets and liabilities, manage cash flow, record financial transactions, and maintain accurate business records—critical tools in building sustainable livelihoods.

Strengthening Marketing Strategies and Customer Engagement
In the marketing module, the training emphasized strategies for online promotion, brand visibility, and customer engagement through digital platforms. Participants also tackled real-world challenges such as overcoming shyness, a common barrier in entrepreneurship, which allowed them to practice customer interaction and deal negotiation. Lessons on fair pricing and identifying a product’s competitive advantage helped sharpen their ability to position their products in the market effectively.

Collaborative Efforts Intensifying Impact
The training was made possible through the joint efforts of DCCCO Multipurpose Cooperative, the Department of Trade and Industry – Negros Oriental Provincial Office, LGU La Libertad, and the AFOS Foundation, under the FISH Visayas Project.

Participants represented organized groups such as the six chapters of BUGSAY Mangingisda, La Libertad Fish Processors Association, Asong Farmer Association, and Mampalasan Farmer Association. With the knowledge and practical tools gained from the training, these groups are now better prepared to market their products, identify the right target markets, and build long-term customer relationships.

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The Basic Entrepreneurship Training in La Libertad directly contributes to Result Area 1: Training for Fisherfolk and MSMEs under the FISH Visayas Project.