To establish a lasting learning experience that engages fisherfolk leaders in improving their awareness of gender issues and developing their leadership abilities, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 5 thru the Special Area for Agricultural Development Program Phase II (BFAR-SAAD), conducted training workshop on Gender Sensitivity, Leadership, and Values Formation to various fishing communities across the region.
Eight fisherfolk organizations in the region have undergone training covering SAAD beneficiaries from Castilla, Santa Magdalena, Irosin in Sorsogon; Santa Elena, Capalonga, San Lorenzo in Camarines Norte; Uson, Masbate and Gigmoto, Catanduanes. The objective of this initiative is to enhance understanding regarding the importance of gender equality, challenge stereotypes, and foster inclusivity within fisherfolk organizations participating in the SAAD Program Phase II. The training also imparted leadership skills to equip fisherfolk leaders with essential tools for effective decision-making, conflict resolution, and community mobilization.
Community development officers from the provinces and program area coordinators delivered lectures and facilitated discussions. Three collaborative workshops were conducted to create action plans for integrating gender-sensitive and sustainable practices within the participating organizations. “The notion that leaders are not born but rather developed through experience suggests that anyone can become a leader given the right environment. Throughout the three-day training, my hope is that you gain valuable insights and knowledge on Gender and Development and leadership to apply within your organization when the opportunity arises” Rolando Tiam, Provincial Fisheries Officer of Camarines Norte said during the 3-day training of Samahan ng Maliliit na Mangingisda of Sta. Elena, Camarines Norte.
“Akala natin mas madaming trabaho ang ginagawa ng mga kalalakihan kesa sa mga kababaihan. Sa workshop na ginawa natin, napagtanto ko na madami palang ginagawa ang mga babae na walang bayad at kusang loob na ibinibigay sa atin sa pamamagitan ng kanilang mga produktibong ginagampanan kagaya ng mga gawaing bahay at pag aalaga sa lahat ng miyembro ng pamilya. Sa training na ito, mas napukaw ang damdamin ko na lalong pahalagahan ang mga kababaihan hindi lang sa loob ng bahay kundi sa kanilang mga ginagampanang tungkulin sa asosasyon at sa komunidad” Geriel Luta, President of Sta. Magdalena Fisherfolk Association, narrated during the sharing of learnings.