By Kenneth Marcos 
The sun rose over Taal, Batangas, bringing a new sense of purpose to the Freshwater Fisheries Research and Development Center (FFRDC) on October 28–29, 2025. Inside the center, participants of the AquaBiz School–Technology Business Incubation (ABS-TBI) program gathered to share their achievements, challenges, and plans for the future.
The Department of Agriculture – National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) led a two-day project accomplishment and assessment workshop aimed at evaluating the program’s progress, exchanging best practices, and mapping strategies for continued success. The ABS-TBI program is designed to support aspiring aquapreneurs by providing technical training, business mentorship, and incubation support for sustainable aquaculture ventures.
Seventeen emerging aquapreneurs participated in the workshop. Thirteen came from FFRDC, two from the Freshwater Brackishwater Center (FBC), and one each from the Marine Fisheries Research and Development Center (MFRDC) and Brackishwater Fisheries Research and Development Center (BFRDC). Each center presented updates on their respective projects, including milestones achieved, incubatee performance, facility rehabilitation, and initiatives aimed at strengthening entrepreneurial skills.
Officials emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship in fisheries as a means to improve livelihoods, particularly in rural communities. The workshop also provided a platform for incubatees to share their experiences, discuss innovative approaches to aquaculture, and learn from each other’s successes and setbacks.
“The ABS-TBI program is more than just training; it is about building a community of aquapreneurs who can contribute to food security and local economies,” said a DA-NFRDI spokesperson. “By combining technical expertise with business support, we aim to empower more Filipinos to succeed in the aquaculture industry.”
The event highlighted not only the progress of the program but also the potential of small-scale aquaculture enterprises to drive sustainable growth. With proper guidance, resources, and collaboration, these emerging entrepreneurs can turn their ideas into profitable ventures while promoting responsible and environmentally friendly practices.
As the workshop concluded, participants left with renewed motivation to expand their projects, improve operational efficiency, and continue learning from both peers and mentors. The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to nurturing local talent, supporting rural livelihoods, and strengthening the country’s fisheries sector.
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