To refresh and retool their knowledge, 39 data enumerators from the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP), both experienced and newly hired, received training in sampling methods and data collection at their assigned fish landing sites from July 30 to August 2, 2024, in Butuan City.

Experts from the Capture Fisheries Research and Development Division (CFRDD) of the DA-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) served as resource speakers. The speakers included Eunice Bognot, Supervising Science Research Specialist; Noimie Rose Dicdiquin, Science Research Specialist II; and Nicko Amor Flores, Science Research Specialist I. They covered topics such as stock assessment concepts and principles, NSAP sampling methodology, taxonomic identification of pelagic, demersal, and invertebrate species, sharks and rays, and fishing gear classifications.

A pre-test was conducted to assess the knowledge level of NSAP personnel involved in fish stock assessment. Afterwards, Joyce Baclayo, NSAP-Caraga Project Leader, provided an overview of the program.

The following three days featured a series of lectures from NFRDI, along with hands-on fish and invertebrate identification sessions. Participants were divided into groups to examine diverse fish and invertebrate species. The training concluded with a post-test to evaluate learning outcomes.

The evaluation indicated that the training significantly enhanced the enumerators’ technical skills and equipped them with the necessary knowledge to effectively carry out their duties in their respective areas.

The training was supported by the FishCore Project under FISHCRRM Component 1.1 and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Caraga, through Regional Director Omnia Olama.

NSAP is a flagship program of NFRDI, implemented in collaboration with the regional field offices of BFAR. The program provides the scientific data used as the basis for management decisions on fishery resources in the fishery management areas nationwide. ### (Rita dela Cruz)