Why we should Better the Life of Fisherman and Fish Vendors | THE DIARY GAME 7-16-2024

Hey everyone! It’s MissSJ here, and today was absolutely thrilling for me in Rosario, Cavite. As a 23-year-old psychology student living in the Philippines, I cherish supporting our local communities, especially our diligent fishermen and fish vendors. Let me walk you through my day and explain why backing them is so vital.

My day kicked off early, around 4 AM. Yeah, it’s super early, but that’s when the fish market is alive with activity. The sea’s salty scent and the buzz of people negotiating over the fresh catch were invigorating. I was met with warm smiles and nods from the vendors, already busy setting up their stalls brimming with seafood.

The first thing that grabbed my attention was the vibrant display of fish in large plastic buckets. From milkfish to prawns, each bucket was overflowing with fresh catches. The vendors were incredibly friendly and welcoming, always eager to share stories about their catch and their families' long-standing involvement in the fishing industry. One vendor, Ate Maria, proudly showed me her milkfish selection, explaining how she keeps them fresh with ample ice.

Supporting our fishermen and fish vendors goes beyond just buying fish. It’s about acknowledging their hard work and the crucial role they play in our community. These individuals wake up at dawn, brave the unpredictable sea, and work tirelessly to bring fresh seafood to our tables. By buying from them, we help sustain their livelihoods and enable them to provide for their families.

As I wandered through the market, a bucket of shrimp labeled "ZYON" caught my eye. The shrimp looked incredibly fresh and delicious. The vendor, Kuya Jun, shared the challenges they face, like fluctuating fish prices and adverse weather affecting their catch. Despite these hurdles, they remain resilient and dedicated. It’s truly inspiring!

By mid-morning, I took a break to chat with some vendors. We discussed their daily routines, families, and the community’s support. I learned that buying local not only aids the fishermen and vendors but also bolsters the local economy. The money circulates within the community, helping other small businesses flourish.

I was also captivated by the market’s colorful fish variety. There were vibrant parrotfish and other species, adding a splash of color to the market scene. Supporting these vendors helps preserve the rich biodiversity of our local waters and promotes sustainable fishing practices.

By noon, as the market was winding down, I had a bag full of fresh seafood and a sense of satisfaction knowing I contributed to the local community. Plus, I couldn’t wait to cook some delicious seafood dishes later!

In the afternoon, reflecting on my experience, I realized how crucial it is to support our local fishermen and fish vendors. It’s about sustainability, community, and appreciating their hard work. This ensures future generations can enjoy fresh, local seafood and keeps our fishing traditions alive.

So, next time you’re thinking of buying seafood, head to your local fish market. You’ll get the freshest catch and support those who bring the sea’s bounty to our tables. Let’s continue to uplift our local communities.

Thanks for reading about my day in Rosario, Cavite. Stay tuned for more adventures and reflections from yours truly, MissSJ! 🌊🐟🌸