By Kenneth Marcos 
Before dawn breaks, many Filipino fisherfolk head out to sea, hoping for a good catch to feed their families and earn a living. For small fish farmers and local entrepreneurs, every harvest means school fees paid, food on the table, and a chance at a better future. Now, a new government initiative aims to help them grow their livelihood beyond the shoreline.
The National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) is set to launch a new program under its AquaBiz School–Technology Business Incubation (ABS-TBI) initiative. The program is designed to support fisherfolk groups, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and research and development institutions engaged in aquaculture.
According to NFRDI, the ABS-TBI Program will focus on helping aquaculture-based enterprises strengthen their operations through innovation, technology support, and entrepreneurship training. The goal is to turn research outputs and new technologies into viable businesses that can generate income and jobs in coastal and rural communities.
Aquaculture, or fish farming, plays a major role in the country’s food supply. The Philippines is among the top producers of aquaculture products in Southeast Asia, including milkfish, tilapia, seaweeds, and shrimp. Many small-scale fish farmers rely on ponds, cages, and coastal areas for production. However, challenges such as climate change, rising input costs, and limited access to markets continue to affect their income.
Through the AquaBiz School–TBI Program, NFRDI aims to bridge the gap between research and real-world business. Participants are expected to receive guidance on product development, business planning, market linkage, and access to technology. The initiative will also promote innovation in areas such as feeds, post-harvest processing, and value-added products.
Government data show that MSMEs make up more than 99 percent of registered businesses in the Philippines and provide a significant share of employment. In the fisheries sector, many enterprises remain small and informal. By offering structured incubation and mentoring, the program seeks to help these groups formalize operations and expand sustainably.
NFRDI said more details about the program’s mechanics, eligibility requirements, and application process will be released soon. Fisherfolk associations, cooperatives, start-ups, and academic institutions involved in fisheries research are encouraged to stay updated and prepare for the upcoming launch.
Industry observers note that combining science, technology, and entrepreneurship could help modernize the aquaculture sector. With proper support, local producers may improve productivity, reduce losses, and increase their competitiveness in local and export markets.
For fisherfolk and small entrepreneurs, the promise of innovation brings renewed hope. A stronger aquaculture sector not only supports livelihoods but also contributes to national food security.
As the NFRDI prepares to roll out the AquaBiz School–TBI Program, stakeholders are reminded that progress in agriculture and fisheries depends on collaboration, innovation, and sustained commitment.
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