The Samahan ng Kababaihang Mangingisda ng Sitio Manuel Uy (SKMSMU) is an all-women group based in the far-flung Sta. Ana in Calatagan, Batangas.

SKMSMU is engaged mainly in the business of producing crackers and chips out of seaweeds. Established in 2012, the organization started with 30 members, all spouses of fishermen, which are not only centered on the seaweed startup but also contributes in promoting sustainable and environmental methods in the coastal and marine ecosystem.

SKMSMU earned the support of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) CALABARZON and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Calaca, Batangas which provided training programs, production area and funds for their operational needs.

However, the group is still short of resources for essential expenses. At present, SKMSMU members have dwindled down to 22, while production has been cut down due to marketing challenges.

“Ang problema po namin ay yung marketing, yung pagsu-suplayan ng aming gawa. Kaya minsan tinatamad ang miembro kasi wala namang pag susuplayan” says Sally Costa, SKMSMU president.

She adds that schools and beach resorts are the sole domains for their chips as marketplaces doesn’t embrace their product due to people’s preference for the more popular brands. Besides, they cannot afford to sell their products at palengke price. Costa says they used to sell seaweed chips for P10.00 pesos per pack. Today, with the high cost of ingredients, they are forced to sell them at P40.00.

Given the circumstances, the SKMSMU still continues to contribute to the local economy and strives for the welfare of women in Sta. Ana.