The Department of Agriculture-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) strengthened the capacity of National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP) field personnel to conduct standardized boat and gear inventory through the final leg of its training series held on September 15-18, 2026, at The Hotel Elizabeth in Cebu City.

The Visayas Cluster training brought together 47 NSAP enumerators and data analysts from regions 6, 7, and 8 as part of the NSAP and FISHCORE Project’s efforts to equip field personnel and project teams with updated knowledge and skills for the collection of reliable fisheries data.

The training covered the classification and measurement of fishing boats and gears, as well as the collection of fisheries catch data to help determine fishing capacity.

Elviro Cinco, a marine ecology and stock assessment expert, discussed the basics of boat classification and measurement and the importance of catch data in assessing fishing capacity. Such information can support the development of science-based fisheries policies and management and reduction measures within fisheries management areas.

James Lee Abad, meanwhile, led the discussion on the classification and measurement of fishing gears. Participants raised questions on gear modifications and standardization, which were addressed during the session.

The lectures were complemented by hands-on workshops on boat and gear classification and measurement. Participants from each region applied the concepts and procedures discussed during the training to reinforce their understanding and ensure consistency in conducting the inventory.

The participants also reviewed the boat and gear inventory (BGI) forms and discussed the proper procedures for conducting interviews with fishers. Interview simulations using various scenarios were conducted to help participants address possible field situations and clarify procedures for collecting inventory data.

The training also emphasized the importance of coordinating with key stakeholders, including Municipal Agriculture Offices (MAOs), Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (FARMCs), and barangay councils. Participants were likewise reminded to practice respectful and effective communication when engaging with fishers during field data collection.

For the participants, the training provided an opportunity to learn directly from subject-matter experts while contributing suggestions to improve the BGI forms and methodology before the inventory is implemented nationwide. The hands-on activities and simulations also allowed them to better understand the practical requirements of conducting the inventory in their respective areas.

A post-training meeting is scheduled on October 6-8, 2026, to consolidate participants’ recommendations and identify further improvements to the BGI forms and methodology. The outputs will help guide the preparation for the nationwide implementation of the boat and gear inventory. ### (Cherry Templonuevo)