MANAOAG, Pangasinan | October 15–16, 2026 — The Department of Agriculture (DA), through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (DA-AMAS), in partnership with Intership Crew Philippines (ICP), launched the first regional implementation of INTERSHIP CARES: The Seafarers’ Reintegration Program through the OFW Investment Forum, “Usapang Agribiz Para sa mga Seafarers,” at The Manaoag Hotel in Manaoag, Pangasinan.

The two-day forum brought together Filipino seafarers and their families to explore agribusiness investments, entrepreneurship, sustainable livelihood opportunities, and government support programs. The initiative aims to help maritime professionals establish alternative income sources and strengthen their long-term financial security beyond active sea service.

The program marked the first regional implementation of the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Agriculture and Intership Crew Philippines. It supports the government\'s reintegration agenda by providing overseas Filipino workers, particularly seafarers, with opportunities for economic empowerment, livelihood development, and sustainable entrepreneurship.

The opening program featured a welcome message from Engr. Anne Glyn Lisbo, Chief of the Agribusiness Promotion Division of DA-AMAS. Messages of support were also delivered by MARINA Enforcement Service Director Luisito Delos Santos, OWWA Policy and Program Development Office Director IV Ana Dominique M. Consulta, and DMW Assistant Secretary for Reintegration Services Atty. Francis Ron “Kiko” De Guzman.

Throughout the forum, participants attended discussions covering agribusiness investment opportunities in Region I, available government assistance, entrepreneurship development, and reintegration initiatives. The sessions provided practical information to help seafarers and their families evaluate potential businesses and prepare for their eventual transition to shore-based livelihoods.

Intership Crew Philippines President Engr. Giovanni Tuapin emphasized that supporting seafarers extends beyond their professional careers at sea. He highlighted the importance of involving spouses and family members in reintegration planning, recognizing their essential role in financial decision-making, income diversification, and the development of sustainable family enterprises.

The first day concluded with a fellowship and networking session attended by seafarers, their families, government representatives, and industry stakeholders. The program also included an agricultural field visit scheduled for October 16, providing participants with firsthand exposure to agribusiness enterprises and potential investment opportunities.

Through INTERSHIP CARES, the Department of Agriculture and Intership Crew Philippines reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening seafarer welfare beyond active employment. The initiative highlights the importance of government-industry collaboration in creating sustainable livelihood opportunities, promoting financial resilience, and helping Filipino maritime families prepare for productive lives after sea service.