The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), conducted two focus group discussions (FGDs) with key stakeholders from the fisheries sector in Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro and Roxas, Palawan under the Promoting Sustainability and Productivity for Enterprise Resilient Upscaling in the Philippines (ProSPER) project.

NM Seafoods Trading, the anchor firm, along with representatives from the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, ADB, and other key institutions joined DTI MIMAROPA for the data gathering activity from 3 to 4 February 2025 in Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro.

Part two of the data-gathering activity occurred from 6-8 February 2025, with the Shell Island Fishers Association as the anchor firm in Roxas, Palawan. They were joined by the local government unit of Roxas, ADB, DTI, and other partners.

A group of people seated in a semi-circle under a makeshift shelter, participating in a focus group discussion. The setting appears to be a coastal area with a boat visible in the background. Various boxes and supplies are stacked on a table, and some participants are taking notes or holding papers. The focus group, conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Asian Development Bank, took place from 6-7 February 2025 in Roxas, Palawan, and is focused on potential investment projects for the fisheries sector in the municipality.
The Department of Trade and Industry and Asian Development Bank conducted a focus group discussion in Roxas, Palawan from 6-7 February 2025 for a study on possible investment projects for the fisheries sector in the municipality.

ProSPER, an initiative of the Asian Development Bank, aims to provide investments in agro-industry, promote product quality and competitiveness, and strengthen institutional capacity through feasibility studies.

Inputs gathered from the discussions will be used to craft feasibility studies to enhance the competitiveness of the participating entrepreneurs as anchor firms in the marine sector. The prepared studies will be submitted for endorsement by the ADB and approval for funding by the National Economic and Development Authority. ♦

Date of Release: 21 February 2025

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