The Western Philippines University – Agribusiness Technology and Business Incubation (WPU-ATBI) Team joined forces with the Tactical Operations Wing West (TOW West) and the Philippine Army Finance Center Producers Integrated Cooperative (PAFCPIC) Palawan Satellite Office to conduct a two-day Training-Workshop on Potential Livelihood Programs on August 1–2, 2024, at the WPU Puerto Princesa City Campus.

The training aimed to strengthen the livelihood and entrepreneurial capabilities of the participants, composed of TOW West personnel, their dependents, and members of local partner communities. The WPU-ATBI Team, composed of Dr. Maria Mojena G. Plasus, Ms. Arlene L. Avillanosa, Ms. Maria Cristina C. Rosero, and Ms. Elleonor P. Abatay, served as the primary resource speakers. They provided lectures and demonstrations on Milkfish, Fresh Prawn, Oyster, and Mud Crab Culturing, offering participants practical insights into aquaculture operations and sustainable farming practices.

Beyond knowledge-sharing, the collaboration also reflected a shared goal of empowering participants with the technical and entrepreneurial skills needed to establish financially and socially sustainable livelihood ventures. These aquaculture technologies are viable sources of income, particularly for coastal communities in Palawan, where access to traditional employment is limited. Participants were guided not only in the production aspect but also in planning and managing their small-scale enterprises.

This initiative is part of WPU’s ongoing efforts to support local communities in developing sustainable livelihoods through training, mentorship, and access to university expertise and facilities. By integrating education with real-world application, WPU helps individuals and groups start and sustain micro-enterprises that contribute to local economic growth. Moreover, the program demonstrated how partnerships with organizations like TOW West and PAFCPIC enable the university to extend its reach and deliver community-based support programs through shared funding, resources, and logistical coordination.

Photos by: Tactical Operations Wing West (https://towwest.wordpress.com/2024/08/02/tow-west-and-pafcpic-collaborate-on-livelihood-program-on-aquaculture-and-agri-natural-farming/)

[This article is in line with the SDGs 1, 2, 4, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, & 17]