In partnership with the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation, the Philippine Global Explorers, is set to be part of the successful ‘Yellow Boat Adventures Program’ soon to be implemented in Concepcion, Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay. This project titled “Yellow Boat Adventures: Empowering KGMC through Farm Culinary Eco-Tourism” aims to build a large capacity tour boat which will uplift the lives of the local community beneficiary, the Kapunungan sa mga Gagmay’ng Mangingisda sa Concepcion (KGMC).

By establishing an eco-tourism model that emphasizes sustainable fishing practices, mangrove conservation, and the region’s rich culinary traditions, this project will pave the way to creation of economic opportunities, empowering our local fishermen, promote environmental stewardship, and secure a sustainable future for the people of Concepcion.

PGE Member Aimee Paragas with Ka Dodoy during her visit to the KGMC Community in June
Fresh catch of Mud Clams
Dr. Anton Lim, YBH Co-founder and President with PGE Member Aieee Paragas and Ka Dodoy
KGMC youngsters paddling out in their ‘Adopt-a-Fisherman’ boat donated by YBHF
KGMC Community members, mostly women, participated in the mangrove planting January of this year

About The KGMC Community

Concepcion, located in the picturesque Sibugay Bay, is home to KGMC, a community led by 2021 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, Roberto “Ka Dodoy” Ballon. In 1986, Ka Dodoy and thirty other fishermen founded the Kapunungan sa Gagmay’ng Mangingisda sa Concepcion (KGMC), or the Association of Small Fisherfolk of Concepcion. Concerned about the widespread conversion of fishponds and the destruction of mangrove forests when these fishponds were abandoned following business collapses, KGMC focused on mangrove reforestation. Facing limited support and slow returns, the association’s membership dwindled to only three, and despite this situation, Ka Dodoy, the group’s chairman, remained committed.

Map of KGMC (Kapunongan sa Gagmay Mangingisda sa Concepcion) in Zamboanga Sibugay.

Their determination eventually earned government backing, marking a turning point in 2000 when the fishermen were granted tenure rights to the reforested land through a government forestry co-management initiative. By 1994, the group had replanted fifty hectares, and by 2015, their mangrove forests had expanded to five hundred hectares.

What was once a barren landscape of neglected fishponds transformed into a thriving ecosystem of healthy mangrove forests teeming with marine and terrestrial life. From its humble beginnings in the 1980s with just a few members, KGMC now represents 320 households. The group’s success led to the launch of additional projects, including the participation of KGMC members in the municipal government’s ‘Bantay Dagat (Sea Patrol)’ volunteer program, which works to protect municipal waters from illegal fishing and mangrove logging.

KGMC has also formed partnerships with development organizations such as the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation to implement livelihood and social enterprise programs. These efforts have been replicated in other towns across Zamboanga Sibugay and beyond. As a result of these initiatives and other developments, Kabasalan has gained recognition as the seafood capital of the province and a popular ecotourism destination.

KGMC members’ houses and their yellow boats along the mangrove coastline

Despite these notable achievements, the community still faces persistent economic challenges. The community’s primary livelihoods—fishing, crab and shell culture, seaweed and oyster farming—are among the most vital sources of income, with oysters from the area being renowned for their exceptional quality, shaped by the unique salinity of the water.

Many men from the community migrate to urban areas seeking better employment opportunities, leaving behind women who are often the sole breadwinners, balancing household and economic responsibilities. Since 2022, the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation has been working closely with the KGMC community, providing essential tools like self-paddle boats and an educational hub that has helped improve access to education for children. Now, the foundation aims to expand this support to create a thriving, eco-tourism-centered economy.

Fresh Oyster catch from the KGMC farms
A pathway though the giant mangrove forest
Endemic crabs from the mangroves

PGE x YBH Project Objectives And Foreseeable Outcomes

This project aims to develop a sustainable eco-tourism model that highlights the significance of mangrove conservation and sustainable aquaculture, fostering a stronger connection between the community and nature. It seeks to create new livelihood opportunities for the KGMC community, supplementing their income from fishing and oyster farming by attracting eco-conscious tourists.

Additionally, the project aims to promote environmental awareness and education among both tourists and the local community, encouraging sustainable practices to protect the region’s unique ecosystem. Furthermore, it plans to build safe and reliable infrastructure for eco-tourism, including a large-capacity boat designed to accommodate tourists for educational tours and activities.

The expected outcomes of the project include increased employment and income for the KGMC community through eco-tourism, leading to diversified and higher earnings. It aims to enhance environmental awareness among both tourists and the local community regarding the importance of mangrove conservation. The initiative also focuses on preserving and promoting local cultural heritage through eco-tourism activities. Additionally, it seeks to improve social cohesion by strengthening community bonds through collective involvement in eco-tourism and the shared economic benefits it brings.

See the PGE’s Mission and Vision here.

Learning about crabs through Ka Dodoy’s invaluable knowledge of the Mangroves
A young man gathering crabs
Siblings gathering Mud Clams for consumption as well as selling

Proposed Farm Eco-Tourism Development Plan

To ensure the success of this project, several key activities are planned:

  • Construction of a Large-Capacity Boat: Invest in a large, stable boat with an engine to provide guided tours along the eco-tourism route. Modeled after successful projects like the Loboc River Experience in Bohol, this boat will allow safe and comfortable travel for tourists as well as a taste of the local seafood culinary offer with a ‘farm-to-table’ concept.
  • Eco-Tourism Route Design: Develop a tour route that highlights the unique mangrove forests, oyster farms, and fish breeding areas. This will include stops for educational walks through mangrove areas on footbridges, allowing visitors to learn about biodiversity and the critical role mangroves play in maintaining coastal ecosystems.
  • Cultural and Educational Experiences: Guided tours led by KGMC community members will educate visitors on the significance of mangrove conservation, sustainable aquaculture, and the challenges the local community faces. Tourists will also be invited to participate in traditional activities like oyster harvesting and cooking demonstrations.
  • Oyster Farm Lunch Experience: A distinctive part of the tour will feature a fresh oyster lunch, showcasing the high-quality oysters that are a staple of the region. This will not only enhance the tour experience but also provide additional income for the local community.
Proposed Design Option 1

Proposed Design Option 2

Total Project Costs

Considering the planned activities for the large capacity boat, Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation teamed up with Architect Peach Buencamino of C.C. Buencamino Architect who volunteered in providing the scheme design along with the total estimate cost. The boat will be large enough to accommodate up to thirty guests plus the tour and kitchen staff.

It will have two floors with dining area to enjoy the culinary offer while on cruise; a kitchen where food will be prepared and a small washroom for the guests. The total estimated project cost amounts to Php 1,630,800.00 of which Php 300,000.00 is pledged by PGE.

The boat will be built once twenty percent of the total cost is raised and the building time will take around four to six months. Any excess donation will still be forwarded to this project. Below is the breakdown of cost of materials and labor.

Estimated Total Cost of Materials and Labor

View the full Project Proposal here – Yellow Boat Adventures: Empowering KGMC through Farm Culinary Eco-Tourism.

Hope Sails And Hope Travels

This project is the biggest that PGE has ever had and together we can definitely make a huge impact. It will not only be life-changing for the KGMC community in sustaining their day to day lives, but it will also boost local tourism in this part of the Philippine archipelago. This is a very strong manifestation of our vision and goals as a non-profit organization giving back to our community. For any questions, clarifications and inquiries, please contact the lead project initiator, PGE Members Aimee Paragas.

How can I donate and be part of this project?

You may donate directly to our official bank account and PayPal account. Details below:

Scan this PGE Bank Account QR Code to donate

Philippine Global Explorers Peso Bank Account

Account Name: Philippine Global Explorers Inc.
Bank Name: Union Bank of the Philippines
Peso Account Number: 003210002299
Swift Code: UBPHPHMM

Philippine Global Explorers PayPal Account

Tap this link or click the button below to donate via PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/PGEDonateNow

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THIS YEAR, LET’S GIVE LOVE “HOPE” ON CHRISTMAS DAY.