Human Services Cluster of Cooperatives Summit Strengthens Fisherfolk Livelihoods in Samal Island
DAVAO CITY (Monday, 23 March 2026) – The Human Services Cluster of Cooperatives Summit brought together government agencies, cooperative leaders, and fisherfolk communities to discuss programs and interventions aimed at improving livelihoods and strengthening cooperative organizations. The two-day summit, themed “Sustainable Cooperative Enterprise for Workers Cooperatives in the Fishing Industry,” focused on collaboration to promote sustainable fisheries enterprises was held at the Island Garden City of Samal, Province of Davao del Norte on 12-13 March 2026.
The event began with a prayer, the singing of the National Anthem, and the Cooperative Pledge. A key highlight was the signing of the Partnership and Collaboration Covenant, symbolizing the commitment of government agencies and cooperatives to work together in supporting fisherfolk communities.
Presentations highlighted various initiatives to strengthen cooperatives and livelihoods. Ms. Annabelle Tuy shared programs on women empowerment, cooperative education, and governance tools for better member participation. ASEC Vergel Hilario presented the Fish Processing Project, which offers value-adding livelihood opportunities for fisherfolk. Mr. Joel Jalandoni discussed business models for fish processing and proposed forming a Fish Processors Workers Cooperative. Ms. Marife Du Fernandez-Borja (PFDA) emphasized food safety and introduced the “isDA On The Go” program for better access to fishery products. Mr. Candido Limikid (DTI) discussed transforming cooperatives into resilient social enterprises and shared plans for aquaculture and salt industry development. Ms. Jasmin Neri (TESDA) highlighted skills training and certification to connect cooperative members to employment and enterprise opportunities.
Participants also raised several concerns during the summit. These included illegal fishing activities, with agencies stressing the need for coordinated action to protect marine resources; the merger and consolidation of cooperatives, for which financial assistance may be available to strengthen operations; and the need for digitalization and social media training, which TESDA can provide to improve business promotion and operational efficiency. Questions about salt production were discussed, with DTI noting that further assessment is needed before pursuing such projects. Additionally, the development of fish net processing as a livelihood opportunity was proposed, and TESDA committed to providing skills training for interested members.
On the second day, participants visited the Grains Multipurpose Cooperative in Brgy. Aumbay to review governance, operations, and member participation. They also visited a fisherfolk association in Brgy. Tagbaobo, engaging with community members to discuss challenges, share experiences, and explore potential support programs.
The summit successfully fostered collaboration among government agencies, cooperatives, and fisherfolk communities, paving the way for stronger partnerships and sustainable cooperative enterprises in the fisheries sector.
Photo Credit: Some of the photos are owned by the CMO CAD FB Page.
