The Northern Palawan Cold Chain and Distribution Hub for Seafood was officially inaugurated, marking a major step in boosting the coastal economy and improving market access for fisherfolk across Palawan. The event gathered key national and local leaders, including His Excellency Lee Sang-hwa, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines; Mr. Jung Young-sun, Country Director of KOICA Philippines; Hon. Amy Alvarez, Governor of Palawan; Hon. Jerome Oliveros, Undersecretary of the Department of Agriculture; Hon. Ferdinand Jumapao, Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism; Hon. Edna Gacot-Lim, Mayor of El Nido; Hon. Norbert Lim, Mayor of Taytay, as well as representatives from 11 Korean NGOs active in the Philippines, including World Vision, Miral Foundation, and Camp Asia.

Funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and implemented by Good Neighbors in partnership with the Municipalities of El Nido and Taytay, the Provincial Government of Palawan, and local fisherfolk cooperatives, the project is part of a three-year initiative (2024–2026) with a total investment of approximately PHP 82.6 million.

Good Neighbors Global Impact Foundation is a specialized expert group within Good Neighbors, composed of professionals in business, finance, and agriculture. The Foundation provides strategic and technical support for expanding community-based economic development initiatives, with a focus on microfinance, cooperatives, social enterprises, and climate resilience. The project aims to:

• Increase the income of fisherfolk and cooperatives
• Expand cooperative business operations and distribution networks
• Develop additional income sources such as aquaculture of sea cucumber and seaweed

Located near key fishing grounds, the hub features 10-ton cold and frozen storage, a 2-ton ice-making machine and two refrigerated trucks, enabling safer, fresher storage and improved distribution. It will be operated by local cooperatives, ensuring community ownership and long-term sustainability.

Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa highlighted the importance of Korean NGO partnerships in the Philippines, noting, “This 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.”

Mr. Jinyoung Hyun, Secretary General of Good Neighbors Global Impact Foundation, said, “This cold chain and distribution hub is our direct response to the question: How can local fisherfolk keep their catch fresher for longer and sell it at a better price? It is designed to increase income, expand market access, and strengthen community-led businesses.”

In addition to infrastructure, the project includes:

• Technical training for fisherfolk on fisheries value chain and cooperative operations
• Support for aquaculture and climate-smart livelihood activities
• Provision of logistics equipment, including transport boats and trucks
• Buyer matching to connect producers to broader markets

By investing in both infrastructure and people, the Northern Palawan Cold Chain and Distribution Hub is set to become a central seafood distribution point for the region—strengthening livelihoods and sustaining the coastal economy for years to come. For more information, visit: www.goodneighbors.ph