• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
Five batches composed of 100 youths from different barangays of the town of San Enrique participated for a three-day workshop series entitled “Pagpanagat,” facilitated and organized by the Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute (NLYI), through its Tuloy Heroes Project.
The seminar workshop focused on providing participants with knowledge on the blue economy and sustainable fisheries, and was held from July 4 until August 10, with 3 days intended for every batch.
“The sessions aimed to deepen understanding, spark innovation, and strengthen local stewardship of marine resources in a close-knit, community-focused setting,” NLYI said in a post.
Theory then turned into practice through hands-on sessions in developing sustainable marine-based products to create livelihood opportunities as the group brought experts to train participants on bangus deboning and turning it into a local variety of dishes.
Participants were able to be trained on food processing and culinary skills specified on milkfish or bangus recipes such as bangus longganisa, bangus shanghai, spanish-style bangus, and spanish sardines.
The group promotes the potential of bangus and other local fishes to diversify income streams and promote food sustainability within the framework of the blue economy. The program explored the fundamentals of the blue economy, examined how livelihoods are tied to the marine environment, and addressed pressing issues, including the 15-kilometer waters.
“The Tuloy Heroes project builds youth-led sustainable fisheries networks and develops post-harvest fisheries alternative sites to advance a participatory and inclusive circular blue economy in Negros Occidental,” they added.
The NYLI is steadfast in encouraging the youth to take part and responsibility for a more progressive future and a more inclusive environment. The group proved their commitment to the blue economy of San Enrique as they provided solar panels for a fisherfolk community this year through their “Project REconnect.”
Meanwhile, the group took oath as one of the Regional Development Council-Negros Island Region (RDC-NIR) Private Sector Representatives (PSRs) during the full council meeting at Dumaguete City on August 12.
As part of their new role, NYLI will actively participate in full council meetings and contribute to shaping the region’s development agenda, being the lone youth organization accredited by the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development in the region.
“It is NYLI’s honor and privilege to represent young people in this crucial policy-making body,” NYLI Executive Director Kevin Gaitan said.*
