In an effort to alleviate the challenges faced by fisherfolks affected by oil spills in Mindoro, a collaborative initiative has been established.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Provincial Government of Oriental Mindoro, and Malampaya Foundation, Inc., have come together to provide comprehensive training on the construction, repair, and maintenance of fiberglass reinforced plastic boats.

Under a signed Memorandum of Agreement, the Provincial Agriculture Office will conduct fisherfolks’ profiling, while BFAR will provide materials for fiberglass boat making. BFAR will also supply trainers, as well as cover trainees’ food and daily allowances throughout the training period.

TESDA will supervise and assess trainees’ competency, issuing training certificates upon completion. The Malampaya Foundation, Inc., a non-government organization, will support the program by providing transportation and accommodation for qualified fisherfolks during training.

The objective of the program is to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to construct fiberglass boats, enabling them to pursue a sustainable livelihood once the fishing ban is lifted.

DOLE will contribute by offering emergency employment opportunities through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers Program.

Beneficiaries will receive a daily allowance of P355, based on the minimum wage in the Mimaropa region, for their 15-day boat-making training. Additionally, beneficiaries will be covered by a one-year group insurance policy from the Government Service Insurance System.

The training program, which has already begun, includes 25 fisherfolk beneficiaries from various municipalities in the province. This ongoing effort demonstrates the commitment of the participating agencies to supporting oil spill-affected fisherfolks in Oriental Mindoro.

Through this collaborative endeavor, the agencies aim to empower the fisherfolks by equipping them with valuable skills, promoting self-sufficiency, and aiding them in rebuilding their livelihoods following the oil spills.