A new cold chain and distribution hub opened in the northern part of Palawan province on Monday to boost the local coastal economy and giving fisherfolk better access to markets.
The Northern Palawan Cold Chain and Distribution Hub for Seafood, a three-year, P82.6-million initiative, was funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and implemented by the non-governmental organization Good Neighbors. It is a partnership with the provincial government, local municipalities and fisherfolk cooperatives.
Located near key fishing grounds, the hub includes a 10-ton cold and frozen storage facility, a two-ton ice-making machine and two refrigerated trucks. Local cooperatives will manage operations to ensure sustainability.
Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa said the facility ‘reflects the shared commitment of the Korean government, KOICA and Korean NGOs to work hand in hand with local partners for sustainable, inclusive development.
The project also offers technical training for fisherfolk on fisheries value chain management, logistics equipment, and matching services to connect producers with buyers.
