DMMMSU Institute of Environmental Governance (IEG) in partnership with DA – BFAR Marine Fisheries Development and Multi-Mission Vessels Operation Center (MFDMVOC) and Tanggol Kalikasan, Inc. (TK) implemented the 24th batch Trainer’s Training on the Construction, Repair and Maintenance of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Boats at the Fisheries Research and Training Institute (FRTI), Brgy. Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union on March 10-20, 2022. A total of 33 participants (3 females and 30 males) composed of fishermen, LGU personnel, students, and university instructors were trained.
The training aimed to further develop the capacities of the participants on FRP boat building and design as well as increase the interest of fisherfolks and local government units in FRP boats. This training also enabled DMMMSU through its IEG to become a local center for technical assistance on FRP boats to LGUs and fisherfolk organizations.
FRP boat is highly recommended for its multiple benefits and features such as corrosion resistance, high strength, lightweight, dimensional stability, low moisture absorption, minimum finishing requirement, and design flexibility among others.
With the assistance of trainers from BFAR F/B Pagbabago Livelihood Development Program (LDP) headed by Mr. Pierre Easter L. Velasco, National Focal Person, six (6) 24-footer FRP boats were produced during the training. Participants were trained on plug/pattern construction, FRP mould and boat fabrication, FRP lamination, demoulding, painting, repair and maintenance.
Each of the LGU beneficiaries namely Aringay, Bacnotan, Balaoan and Bangar, La Union were awarded with one (1) FRP boat with complete accessories and engine. LGU-identified fisherfolk associations will utilize these boats to support their livelihood activities. The boats can also be used for coastal law enforcement and Marine Protected Areas (MPA) monitoring. Further, the two (2) FRP boats were awarded to DMMMSU for education and research purposes.
Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. University President extends his profound gratitude to DA-BFAR headed by Commodore Eduardo B. Gongona, PCG (Ret.), National Director and to TK headed by Atty. Ma. Ronely D. Bisquera-Sheen, Executive Director for their unwavering support leading to the successful conduct of the training and for their continuous commitment in empowering communities.
The Closing and Turn-over Ceremonies held on March 20, 2022 was attended by the trainees, trainers and partners. Also present during the event are Dr. Angelina T. Gonzales, VP for Research and Extension; Dr. Junifer Rey E. Tabafunda, NLUC Chancellor; Dr. Violeta Collado, NLUC Extension Head; Dir. Rosario Segundina P. Gaerlan, Regional Director DA-BFAR 1 represented by Mr. Jesus L. Bilaoen, Regional Fisherfolk Director; Mr. Pierre Easter L. Velasco, F/B Pagbabago Focal Person; Col. Ramon F. Laudencia, PGLU Provincial Agriculturist; respective Municipal Agriculturists of the LGU beneficiaries; and IEG Faculty trainers headed by Mr. Celso H. Jucutan.
This training was generally funded by DA-BFAR with counterparts from DMMMSU and Tanggol Kalikasan, Inc. through the Institute of Environmental Governance under the Environmental Justice Sector Reform Program 2 (EJSRP2) being supported by US Department of State – Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement and the US Department of Interior. (CHJ)
