As part of the Safety Awareness Program for Fisherfolks: A community Guide to Fishing Boat Safety and Emergency Preparedness, last August 29, 2023, the College of Maritime Education (CME) at Misamis University organized a coastal clean-up in Barangay Barra, Tudela, Misamis Occidental.

The MU CME Local Student Council, led by Governor Clinton H. Abcede, started the initiative by engaging the Marine Engineering Technological Association (META), Nautical Odyssey Allegiance (NOA), the Barangay Council of Barra, with local community members, including 20 fisherfolk participants. This partnership emphasized the importance of cooperation and volunteerism in protecting coastal ecosystems and fostering sustainable communities.

The initiative promotes maritime safety for local fisherfolk, recognizing fishing as a vital yet high risk livelihood, particularly for small boats exposed to changing weather and sea conditions. The program offers practical guidance on boat safety, accident prevention, and emergency response. Through maritime education and outreach, it encourages safer practices to protect fishermen, their passengers, and their livelihoods.

This initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), & SDG 15 (Life on Land).

The program addresses key aspects of fishing boat safety and emergency preparedness. These aspects include proper use of life jackets and other safety equipment, pre-departure inspections of fishing boats, monitoring weather conditions, maintaining communication with shore personnel, and understanding appropriate responses during maritime emergencies. The activity shared essential safety and preparedness skills to the community. By learning how to prevent accidents and handle emergencies, fisherfolk can protect themselves, their families, and their communities. The program gives them practical skills to identify hazards, prevent accidents, and respond effectively to emergencies.