By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the scorching sun of Cavite, a group of women sat eagerly, learning how to build a better future through skills not often taught to them—fishing techniques and boat-making. For five days, they turned their curiosity into confidence, proving that women, too, have a strong place in the world of fisheries.
From September 29 to October 3, 2025, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – National Marine Fisheries Development Center (BFAR-NMFDC) led a specialized training on Women’s Economic Empowerment in Capture Fisheries and Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Value-Added Products. The training was held in the BFAR-NMFDC facility in Panapaan, Bacoor City, Cavite.
The goal: empower women to take an active role in the fisheries industry—traditionally a male-dominated field—by giving them hands-on training and knowledge they can use to earn more and support their families.
Participants learned proper fishing practices, boat repair, and how to create value-added products using FRP technology. These include useful items like fiberglass containers, crafts, and boat parts that can be sold in local markets. The skills can provide women new sources of income beyond the typical roles expected of them.
“We often think of fishing as a man’s job. But women have a place here, too,” said one participant. “Now, I feel more confident to start something that can help my family.”
This initiative is part of the Gender and Development (GAD) program of BFAR, which aims to promote equal opportunities for women in the agriculture and fisheries sectors. It supports the government’s wider agenda under “Bagong Pilipinas”—a push for inclusive development that leaves no one behind.
According to BFAR, women make up nearly half of the workforce involved in fish processing and marketing. However, they often receive less support and fewer opportunities for training and growth. By providing technical skills, this program helps level the playing field and strengthens rural economies.
Aside from the technical lessons, the training also included financial literacy and basic business planning. This helps ensure that the participants can manage small enterprises and explore livelihood options in their communities.
Local officials and BFAR staff stressed the importance of community-based development and the role of women in sustaining coastal resources. They also encouraged participants to become leaders and share their learnings with others.
The event ended with a display of the women’s finished FRP products and a simple graduation ceremony. Smiles and laughter filled the room, but more importantly, the women went home with tools, knowledge, and hope for a better tomorrow.
As the country continues to recover from economic challenges, programs like this offer real, practical change—especially for women in rural coastal areas who are often the backbone of their families but receive the least support.
“Hindi lang po kami para sa bahay,” another participant proudly shared. “Kami rin po ay may kakayahan sa pangisdaan.”
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