Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) College of Fisheries recently hosted a skills training program focused on fish processing and value addition. The program, sponsored by HOLCIM Philippines, sought to uplift the capabilities of individuals engaged in the local fisheries industry.

Dr. Faith S. Tadeo, Dean of the College of Fisheries, welcomed participants with inspiring remarks. Dr. Andie John D. Tadeo, Director of DMMMSU FRTI, further elaborated on the purpose of the training, emphasizing the opportunity for participants to familiarize themselves with the College’s facilities and equipment for potential future collaborations.

Mr. Ronald Bustos, Head of the Extension Office at DMMMSU-SLUC, and Mr. Matthew Joseph R. Almojuelo, CSR and Administrative Manager of HOLCIM Philippines, delivered additional messages of support. Mr. Almojuelo emphasized HOLCIM’s continued commitment to community development and support for locally made products.

The intensive one-day training session delved into various aspects of fish processing and value-addition techniques. Expert instructors from the College of Fisheries led participants in hands-on practical sessions. They learned about food safety standards, bangus deboning, dried fish processing, smoked fish processing, and basic packaging and labeling.

The DMMMSU and HOLCIM partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to empowering and enhancing the livelihoods of fisherfolk associations within Bacnotan and Balaoan, La Union. (By Precy Joy Tollino)