V. Development of transport and marketing services
For LOP-assisted IGPs to attain sustainable level of operations, a viable marketing support mechanism and transport/delivery services should be put in place. Provision of these two basic services will ensure the availability of fishery products, basic commodities and other commercial goods to target clients/customers at the right volume, price and quality.
The development and implementation of transport and marketing services may be undertaken as a project itself or as a support service by either of the following proponents:
a) New or existing women's associations or fishermen' 5 groups (under the proposed expansion plan for 1995 onwards);
b) Federation of women's/men's groups at the municipal level; and
c) Coalition of women's/men's groups at the district or provincial level.
Any or a combination of the following strategies may be considered in pursuing the proposed project:
a) Market matching as a strategic intervention in linking buyers and suppliers in a cost-effective and sustained manner;
b) Development of market information system to provide timely and reliable information needed by both buyers and sellers;
c) Market explorations through meetings/discussions with buyers/sellers' groups, producers, processors, exporters and coordinating agencies;
d) Linkage with government agencies and private institutions providing technical assistance, such as :
- Department of Trade and Industry - Trade Exhibits
- Cooperative Development Authority - Nationwide Marketing Grid
- Fisheries Development Support Services Division (FDSSD), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources - Promotion and Market Matching
- Development Bank of the Philippines/Dept. of Transportation and Communications- Transport Cooperatives
a) Choice of trucking fleet should be appropriate to the requirements of the products to be delivered. Based on interviews with project participants, 2-tonner Elf Trucks with insulated aluminum vans will be most appropriate for fishery products and dry goods.
b) Availability of spare parts from nearby auto/truck supplier at any time should be a prime factor in the selection of truck brand and model.
c) Supplier of the trucking fleets should be able to provide one-year guarantee on parts and service, availability of back-up spare parts and free truck registration;
d) Trucking operation should emanate from an accessible location from the standpoint of clients and delivery points;
e) The proponent or any member of the group should be knowledgeable on the repair/maintenance of vehicles.
f) Prior to commencement of trucking operations, the proponent must secure the requisite franchise from the Land Transportation Franchise Regulatory Board (LTFRB) of the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC).
g) A business license shall likewise be obtained from the Municipal Mayor's Office.
A full development of the concept and implementation plan for pursuing the project is necessary. Likewise a thorough marketing and financial study should be undertaken to assess its viability.
