Last February, the Bitaugan West Fisherfolk Association in Surigao del Sur participated in a livelihood project – Bangus Products Processing training, with most of the attendees being women. This initiative, supported by Oceanus Conservation and the Blue Marine Foundation, aims to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities while reinforcing the restoration of mangrove ecosystems. The milkfish used in this training (and in the kickstart of this livelihood project) are grown around the very mangrove forests that Oceanus is working to rehabilitate, ensuring that conservation and community development go hand in hand.

Passing on Local Knowledge

One of the most inspiring aspects of this project is the role of Delailah and Jane Lacadue, a mother-daughter duo from Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Operators in La Union—another partner organization of Oceanus Conservation. As experienced community leaders, they facilitated the training, sharing their journey from learning the trade to leading a cooperative and moving towards sustainable livelihood in their area.

Delailah and Jane’s leadership has not only strengthened their cooperative but also inspired fellow fisherfolk to see mangrove rehabilitation as an opportunity—not just for conservation but for sustainable livelihoods.

“Nalipay og nagpasalamat kay nadugangan ang ako kahibalo…look forward sab nako pag human training with Ate Delailah na magamit namo tanan niya gi tudlo ug mag malahutayon ang amo bago na livelihood kuman.” – Princess Ann Asequia (Secretary, BWFA)

“I am happy and grateful, because my knowledge has increased… I also look forward to finishing the training with Ate Delailah so that we can apply everything she has taught us, and I hope that our new livelihood will be sustain.” Translated in English

With the assistance of the Blue Marine Foundation, Oceanus Conservation was able to provide the necessary equipment and raw materials to kickstart this livelihood project in Bitaugan West. More than just a skills-building opportunity, this initiative empowers women, fosters cooperative leadership, and strengthens the community’s economic resilience.

Building a Future Where Conservation Meets Economic Sustainability

Empowering women is a powerful force in community-driven conservation and economic sustainability. By investing in skills and leadership development, initiatives like this pave the way for a brighter and more resilient future for coastal communities.

“I am thankful po for the chance na ishare ang knowledge namin for bangus processing (gourmet bangus). I must say na hindi lang ako Barangay Nutrition Scholar but naging Trainer na rin ng Bangus Processing. Nakakagalak na makita sila na interested for this training and makikita mo sa mga members (BWFA) yung initiative nila. Claiming for the successful project of their association” – Mary Jane Lacadue

“I am thankful for the chance to share our knowledge on bangus processing (gourmet bangus). I must say that I am not just a Barangay Nutrition Scholar but also a Trainer for Bangus Processing. It is heartwarming to see their interest in this training, and you can truly see the initiative from the members of BWFA. Claiming the success of their association’s project!”

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At Oceanus Conservation, we believe investing in people—especially women—is the key to long-term environmental and economic sustainability. You can support our mission by:

🌱 Partnering with us to expand livelihood programs in more communities
🌍 Funding our initiatives to scale up training, equipment, and restoration efforts
📣 Spreading awareness about the connection between mangrove conservation and sustainable livelihoods

Your involvement can make a lasting impact in ensuring sustainable livelihoods and the preservation of our marine ecosystems.

Words by: Emmanuel Cababarros Jr.