Flying fish processing center rises via VLPCEP center

Itbud, Uyugan,Batanes – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently launched the Village Level Processing Center Enhancement Project (VLPCEP) for the Milagrosa Multi-Purpose Cooperative, an agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARB) cooperative engaged in the processing of flying fish into bottled Spanish sardines.

Milagrosa MPC received a grant from the DAR amounting to P180,000.00 for the construction their fish processing center consisting of a 3.33m X 5.0m corrugated GI sheet building under the VLPCEP. The VLPCEP project is designed primarily to enhance the existing processing center with development support initiative for ARB cooperatives and other ARB organizations (ARBO), improve their capability to produce quality processed products that are highly competitive in the mainstream market including services to its members.

Further, it helps develop market- competitive Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organization (ARBO) products through product development (e.g., labelling, packaging designs, etc.) and enrich enterprise and livelihood activities at the community level in the selected agrarian reform areas. The VLPCEP is also intended to develop homegrown products for better opportunities and linkage to potential markets.

Aside from processing flying fish into bottled Spanish sardines, the Milagrosa MPC also processes one-day old flying fish, a popular delicacy only found in Batanes, so called because the flying fish is set to dry for one day on hot stones under the sun. Also, they process the flying fish into fish balls and fish lumpia.

DAR will continue to provide capability building and skills enhancement including monitoring to sustain the project. It has also coordinated with other CARP implementing agencies such as the: Bureau of Food and Drugs for quality assurance and for Milagrosa MPC to be duly registered with BFAD and avail a license; Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will also conduct trainings for cooperators and assists in the marketing aspect. Other agencies such as DOLE and DOST are likewise involved in the project.