Training Needs and Readiness Assessment of Fisherfolk Associations for Cooperative Development: Basis for an Extension Program in Sagay City, Philippines

Abstract

Cooperative development is increasingly recognized as a strategy for improving the socio-economic conditions of fisherfolk communities and promoting sustainable development. This study assessed the socio-economic needs and cooperative competency requirements of fisherfolk associations in Sagay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines as a basis for developing a Cooperative Management Extension Program. Specifically, it examined the respondents' demographic profile, community-social needs, cooperative education and management training requirements, and significant differences across demographic characteristics. Using a quantitative descriptive-comparative design, data were collected from 488 fisherfolk association members through a validated survey questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were employed in the analysis of data. The findings revealed that respondents were generally characterized by economic vulnerability, modest educational attainment, and dependence on fisheries-based livelihoods. Community-social needs were assessed as minimally needed overall, although governance, financial literacy, business literacy, and customer service emerged as priority areas for capacity development. Cooperative education and management competencies were rated as highly needed, particularly in cooperative principles, governance, financial management, organizational operations, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. No significant differences were found in either community-social needs or cooperative competency requirements when respondents were grouped according to demographic variables. The study concludes that fisherfolk associations possess the foundational conditions necessary for cooperative engagement but require substantial capacity-building interventions to strengthen cooperative readiness. Enhancing governance, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and organizational management competencies may contribute to improved livelihood opportunities, organizational sustainability, community resilience, and sustainable community development.