Valuechain analysis of island mackerel (rastrelliger faughni) in selected coastal municipalities in Lagonoy gulf, Philippines: a case study / Mary Matthew N. Jamer

Masters Theses (MBM) - Business Management Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, 2024

Includes bibliographic references.

The study, entitled "Value Chain Analysis of Island Mackerel (Rastrelliger faughni) in selected Coastal Municipalities along Lagonoy Gulf, Camarines Sur Philippines: A Case Study," examines the economic dynamics, strengths, and challenges that exist within the value chain of the island mackerel (Buraw) industry. The SWOT analysis highlights established fishing practices and an abundance of marine biodiversity as industry strengths and factors influencing the sector. The sector as a whole is hampered by problems like post-harvest handling, environmental impacts, and technological limitations. The analysis draws attention to the intricate relationships that exist between the many participants in the value chain, such as municipal fishers, wholesalers, retailers, processors, retail processors, and fisher-wholesalers. The peak and lean economic dynamics show that profit margins vary, with fishermen showing particularly high profitability. The difficulties that fishermen encounter such as poor weather and a lack of assistance-are emphasized, and the flexibility of retailers amid the pandemic is highlighted. The study delves into the processing and marketing techniques, highlighting the conventional approaches utilized by retailers-processors and processors, who are primarily female. Several challenges, including a lack of technological know-how and insufficient information, were found. The industry's economic viability is examined in further detail, with differing profit margins for various players, highlighting the necessity for collaboration and diversification. Furthermore, the industry's traditional strengths highlight the necessity of current technology, diversification, cooperatives, teamwork, and government support for long-term, steady growth. The strengthening of Integrated Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils and the creation of BFARMCS, financial literacy for fishermen, technology transfer initiatives, assistance for fisheries cooperatives, and the use of ICT-based data management solutions are just some of the recommendations. Essentially, the study offers insightful information on the challenges and opportunities present in the island mackerel value chain in the Lagonoy Gulf.