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From Sea to Sustenance: Empowering Fisherfolk in Bombon, Pasacao, and Pamplona Through Fish Processing Training

September 12, 2025

The Fish Processing Training conducted by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) through Shell Training Farms Bombon (STFBBN) is part of the broader Community Skills and Enterprise Development (CSED) program, which empowers local communities by enhancing livelihood opportunities and promoting sustainable practices.

Key Benefits of the Training

Sustainable Fisheries Support: By teaching fish processing techniques, the program helps reduce waste and extend the shelf life of catch—vital for both food security and environmental sustainability.
Income and Livelihood Opportunities: Fish processing transforms freshly caught fish into safe, high-quality products for consumption or sale. It reduces losses, creates added value, and strengthens income streams for fisherfolk in Bombon, Pasacao, and Pamplona, Camarines Sur.

The three training sessions—each held over two days—brought together 105 beneficiaries from the municipalities of Bombon, Pasacao, and Pamplona. Participants were equipped with hands-on skills in deboning, salting, drying, bottling, and smoking. These techniques not only reduce post-harvest losses but also open opportunities for micro-enterprises and additional household income. Proper handling, use of PPE, and sanitation were also emphasized to ensure product quality and safety.

“These initiatives and learned techniques not only preserve fish but also open doors to entrepreneurship—like selling dried fish, smoked products, or salted delicacies. For those joining local training programs or starting fish-based ventures, mastering these methods is a powerful step forward,” said James S. Bruma, Site Administrator.

This initiative was made possible with the support of the Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Office V, whose technical expertise and commitment ensured the success of the training.

Why PSFI Does This

As the social arm of Shell companies in the Philippines, PSFI’s mission is to help communities thrive by fostering sustainable livelihoods. In fishing communities like Bombon, Pasacao, and Pamplona—where income depends heavily on natural resources—PSFI builds capacities to ensure long-term resilience, food security, and inclusive growth. By equipping fisherfolk with processing and value-adding skills, PSFI strengthens both household economies and the broader food chain.

“Being a good neighbor means going beyond business—we want to leave lasting value in the communities where we operate,” Bruma emphasized.

What’s Next

The graduates of this training are expected to establish small fish-processing ventures, supply local markets, form cooperatives, or participate in livelihood fairs. PSFI, alongside BFAR and local government units, will continue to provide mentoring and linkages to ensure that these skills lead to tangible opportunities.

PSFI further strengthens community empowerment in Bombon by providing additional capacity-building programs such as Sanayan sa Kakayahang Pangangalakal (SKP) and Leadership Enhancement and Attitude Development (LEAD). SKP hones entrepreneurial skills, while LEAD instills values, work ethics, and leadership qualities—preparing participants for both personal and professional growth.

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