A father’s motto: No rest for the weary until success is attained

Mark Vincent Dela Peña, a fisherman from Barangay Binangbang Centro in Barbaza, Antique, is a devoted father and a hardworking provider for his family. He is married to Sheryl, his wise and supportive wife, whom he proudly introduces to everyone. Together, they have two children: Angel Marie, 9 years old, and McKenzie, 7 years old, both currently attending elementary school.

Their primary source of income comes from fishing. Sheryl also works as an on-call helper and assists Mark Vincent in selling his catch. Despite their combined efforts, their income was once insufficient to meet the needs of their growing family. Mark Vincent owned only a small fishing boat, which limited the volume of his catch. His gross income ranged from Php 1,000 to Php 2,000 per fishing operation which is barely enough to support daily expenses.

In 2024, the Punong Barangay of Binangbang Centro referred Mark Vincent to the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) for possible livelihood assistance. After undergoing assessment, he qualified for the program and opened a sari-sari store when he received the capital assistance for his livelihood project.

At first, the sari-sari store operated well. Over time, however, unpaid credit increased, and collecting payments became difficult. The situation worsened when Mark Vincent’s mother opened a sari-sari store nearby, which caused a further decline in their sales. Recognizing the need to adapt, Sheryl made the difficult but wise decision to close the store and sell all remaining stocks to protect their SLP capital. She managed to save Php 16,000, which they used to purchase a larger fishing boat capable of carrying nets and storing more catch.

With the new boat, Mark Vincent now goes fishing almost every day. Like all fishermen, he struggles during bad weather especially when going out to sea is impossible. This is why he takes every opportunity to fish when the weather is favorable. With the bigger boat, their net income has increased to Php 2,500 to Php 3,500 per operation, and during peak fishing seasons, earnings can reach Php 4,000 to Php 6,000 per operation.

Sheryl plays a key role in marketing their catch. She posts their products online, offers competitive prices, and ensures customers receive fresh fish. Mark Vincent also provides free delivery, allowing them to sell their harvest quickly.

Sheryl shared that she is able to save Php 1,000 daily, while the remaining income covers their household needs. They make sure their children receive healthy and sufficient meals every day. Through consistent saving, they were able to plan for and purchase another fishing boat in August 2025 for Php 14,000, along with a motorbike worth Php 21,000. The additional boat is now operated by Mark Vincent’s nephew, while Sheryl continues to manage the harvest from both boats.

At present, Sheryl oversees the marketing and sales of their catch. By offering lower prices, they have gained more customers, with daily sales ranging from Php 5,000 to Php 6,000. She continues to save for their next goal, a top-down vehicle to be used for deliveries. They have also been able to purchase household items such as a television and kitchenware, and most importantly, they are now able to extend help to their parents.

Mark Vincent expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Sustainable Livelihood Program, proudly sharing that their livelihood has become sustainable through perseverance and Sheryl’s careful financial management./dswd6/cdf/Doris V. Cervera