The workshop brought together information officers from the 15 Regional Program Management Support Offices (RPMSO), providing them with valuable insights and skills to effectively communicate the program’s objectives and achievements.

The event commenced with opening remarks from Nazario Briguera, the head of the Bureau’s Information and Fisherfolk Coordination Unit (IFCU). Briguera emphasized the crucial role of both Public Relations and Development Communications in realizing the goals of the SAAD program. Development communication serves as a vital tool in educating beneficiaries about the program’s potential to assist them in establishing community-based enterprises. Public relations, on the other hand, plays an essential role in fostering trust and building strong relationships with stakeholders. Ulysses Lustria Jr, the Director of the Department of Agriculture-SAAD Program, also delivered an inspiring message to motivate the participants. He highlighted the accomplishments of the fisheries sector and acknowledged the instrumental role played by the information unit in the program’s transition from Phase 1 to Phase 2.

This three-day training includes presentations on Press Release Writing by James Konstantin Galvez of PaRR, Photojournalism by Mark Demayo of ABS-CBN, and Development Communication by Myleen Herrera of TESDA. This workshop aims to enhance the capacity of Information Officers in content production through writing and photography.

In her closing remarks, Elymi Ar-J S. Tuñacao, the BFAR-SAAD National Focal Person, expressed her gratitude to all the attendees and resource speakers. She noted that this training marked the program’s first step into communications-focused workshops and more capacity building activities in the future. Tuñacao also personally awarded certificates of participation, underscoring the importance of the training and recognizing the dedication of the information officers.

The successful completion of this training reflects BFAR-SAAD’s commitment to fostering effective communication strategies and ensuring the dissemination of accurate information about the program’s initiatives. By equipping information officers with the necessary skills and knowledge, BFAR-SAAD is better positioned to forge stronger connections with stakeholders, promote transparency, and ultimately drive the success of the SAAD program.

About BFAR-SAAD:
The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-BFAR-SAAD) Program Phase 2 aims to contribute to poverty reduction and improve the living conditions of marginalized fisherfolk and their communities. By providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and support for small-scale fishery enterprises, BFAR-SAAD strives to enhance food security and promote economic growth in targeted areas across the Philippines.