Mulanay, Quezon – Personnel of CENRO Catanauan, Quezon conducted the Rapid Assessment and Appraisal of the Biodiversity Friendly Enterprise of Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Kababaihan ng Patabog (SNKP) held on Brgy. Patabog, Mulanay, Quezon on August 8, 2023.

The BDFE was introduced to the PO as one of the major components of the Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Management Program (CMEMP) to develop social linkages and promote biodiversity conservation, particularly on coastal and marine resources. Personnel from CENRO Catanauan also orient the PO officers and members about the Rapid Assessment and Appraisal of their small business enterprise. The activity was attended by the seven (7) Officers of the Samahan (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Auditor, and PIO).

Fish lumpia and fish siomai were among the enterprises of the said PO. Species of fish used as raw materials for the processing of the products are vernacularly called Mariano, Bolinao, Tamban, and Lumahan. Other than fish processing, they are also engaged in ice making, dried fish making, operating small restaurants, savings and credit, and fish selling. The diversity of their small businesses maximizes profit gain.   

For the Rapid Assessment, ANNEX B of DAO No. 2021-13 was used and administered to the People’s Organization. The answer resulted in an 81.25% BDFE Index, therefore passing the eligibility range of 80%-100%. For the appraisal, the PO enterprise got 13 points out of 23 points for level 1, and 5 points out of 26 points for level 2.

The PO requested technical and financial assistance from various agencies for the sustainability of their enterprise and how this will be managed. Moreover, the main problem that arose during the assessment was the lack of a market for their fish lumpia and siomai. In fact, unsold products were given to the members of the organization for personal consumption.

The rapid assessment ensures that the endorsed enterprise is biodiversity-friendly and within the Multiple-Use Zone. The assessment of both the beneficiaries and the area is needed to determine the relevance, applicability, and acceptability of the potential livelihood options.###