20/07/2023
📍EMPOWERING THE YOUTH OF MANAY
MANAY, Davao Oriental (July 19, 2023) – In a remarkable endeavor to empower local youth and cultivate their entrepreneurial spirit, food processing trainer Robert Getes and Jan Rino M. Apares, Negosyo Center Technical Staff of the Department of Trade and Industry, in collaboration with the LGU Manay, BLGU Central, and SK Central conducted a one-day comprehensive skills training program at Brgy. Central Gymnasium last July 19, 2023. The program included a Dried Fish Processing Training and an Entrepreneurial Mind-Setting Seminar aimed at equipping young individuals with the necessary skills and mindset to excel in the industry.
The initiative of the Sangguniang Kabataan of Central Hon. Jameco A. Dayanghirang sought to address the demand for skilled workers in the dried fish processing sector, while simultaneously fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and self-reliance among the youth. Robert Getes, an expert in dried fish processing and Mr. Jan Rino M. Apares, resource speaker for entrepreneurship development provided winning formula for the participants.
The Dried Fish Processing Training focused on imparting technical knowledge and hands-on skills required to transform raw fish into high-quality dried fish products. Robert Getes shared his extensive experience and expertise and guided the participants through various stages of the processing which includes fish selection, cleaning, salting, drying, and packaging. The participants learned about proper hygiene practices, quality control measures, and innovative techniques to enhance the flavor and shelf life of dried fish products.
Complementing the technical training, Mr. Jan Rino M. Apares conducted the Entrepreneurial Mind-Setting Seminar, which aimed to instill a mindset of innovation, perseverance, and business acumen among the aspiring entrepreneurs. Through interactive sessions and practical exercises, Mr. Apares emphasized the importance of market research, branding, pricing, and cost management in establishing a successful dried fish enterprise. The seminar also covered essential topics such as business registration, access to financing, and government support programs available to young entrepreneurs.
The collaboration between the LGU Manay Manay, led by Hon. Jon Marco M. Dayanghirang Municipal Mayor represented by Jan Michael Belena, OIC-MPDO, BLGU Central and SK Central represented by SK Jameco A. Dayanghirang, Robert Getes, and Mr. Jan Rino M. Apares reflects a shared vision of empowering the youth with the necessary skills and knowledge to create sustainable livelihoods. The training program not only equipped the participants with technical expertise but also inspired them to explore business opportunities within the dried fish industry.
The trainings have undoubtedly laid a solid foundation for the aspiring young entrepreneurs by combining technical expertise with entrepreneurial acumen. This collaborative effort has set the stage for a brighter future for the youth of Manay, empowering them to become self-reliant.