DMMMSU through the Fisheries Research and Training Institute signed a memorandum of agreement on ‘Livelihood Projects related to Seaweed Production, Fish Processing, and Salt Production and Value-adding’ at the Central Administration Building at Bacnotan, La Union on December 20, 2021. The MOA was signed in by DMMMSU President, Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., Atty. Romulo P. Rivera, Chairman of Multipurpose Cooperative of State Auditors (MCOSA) in Region 1, and Mrs. Maria Crispina N. Nelmida of Women’s Aquatic Processing Association (WAPA).

Also present during the signing were MCOSA Members of Board of Directors, Dr. Emerita D. Galiste (Director for Extension), Dr. Junifer Rey E. Tabafunda (NLUC-Chancellor), Dr. Andie John D. Tadeo (FRTI Director), and WAPA representative Ms. Liza Felicisima Rivera.

In support of the project, DMMMSU will provide technical assistance in the implementation of the projects; designate project personnel and subject matter specialist to oversee project implementation; collect necessary data/information as basis in evaluating the project; and allow workers and other stakeholders of the extension project to conduct educational visit to DMMMSU projects that are relevant to the concerns of the WAPA. On the other hand, MCOSA will provide logistics for the WAPA livelihood projects based on the approved Work and Financial Plan/Budget and other types of assistance related to the fisheries as may be identified and agreed upon by the parties concerned; monitor and evaluate the WAPA livelihood projects. Meanwhile, WAPA will implement the livelihood projects effectively and efficiently; ensure security and sustainability of stocks; prepare and submit work and Financial Plan/Budget for approval of MCOSA; keep association’s records and accounts, subject to evaluation and review; allow DMMMSU through NLUC-FRTI and MCOSA representatives to monitor and evaluate the association’s projects.

As an initial activity, MCOSA awarded/distributed 20 rolls of Polyethylene rope and other materials for seaweed culture in Coastal waters of Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union to WAPA as the beneficiary of the Livelihood Project. MCOSA also plans to support other coastal associations in Balaoan for their livelihood projects in fish processing and salt production in 2022. (Ayu)