Episode 12: Supporting Fisherfolk on the Path to Sustainability with Dhang Tecson

Chit Juan sits down with Dhang Tecson of Sinaya Seafood to explore the heart of sustainable seafood and responsible sourcing in the Philippines. Dhang shares her journey into sustainable practices, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities within local fishing communities. They discuss why some fisherfolk turn to illegal methods and the transformative impact of shifting to safer, eco-friendly approaches. Dhang also highlights the vital role of women in these communities and Sinaya Seafood's commitment to bringing lesser-known fish to the market, promoting marine conservation and a more sustainable future for our oceans. This is an insightful conversation for anyone passionate about protecting our seas and empowering those who depend on them.

GUEST BIO:

Dhang Tecson is a passionate ocean advocate with over a decade of impact in the social enterprise sector, focused on marine conservation and sustainability.  In her previous role as Global Operations Director at Plastic Bank, Dhang played a key role in combating ocean plastic pollution across the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Brazil, Egypt, and Cameroon. Now, as Founder and Chief Executive Mermaid of Sinaya Seafood, a social enterprise inspired by the ancient Philippine Goddess of the Sea, she leads her team in collaborating with strategic partners to preserve the Philippine seas, promote responsible ocean stewardship, and showcase sustainable, high-quality regional seafood specialties from fishing community enterprises. 

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

• Dhang’s journey into sustainable seafood
• Why some fisherfolk resort to illegal fishing
• Helping fisherfolk transition to safe, sustainable practices
• Ways to empower fishing communities and protect our oceans
• What sustainable fishing really means
• The vital roles of women in fishing communities
• Introducing lesser-known fish to consumers
• Innovations in sustainable seafood at Sinaya Seafood

QUOTES:

• One of the main reasons why they practice overfishing or illegal fishing is because of the income.
• In the previous years, it would only take a few hours, maybe two, and their fishnets are already full; versus in the current situation right now, it would take eight hours to 10 hours for them to have a better catch.
• There are many species of seafood that can only be found in our country.
• Unfortunately, our ocean is categorized as over-exploited.
• They (women) are involved in the processing and the treating but unfortunately, with their contribution to the entire chain, it's often undervalued or unrecognized.

LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Follow Dhang on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
• Follow Sinaya Seafood on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

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