From Two Cages to Thirty: Paulina Ragaas and the Waters of Resilience

Paulina Ragaas

Barangay Bayogo, Jala-Jala, Rizal

Business: Fish Growing and Fish Cage Supplies 

MFI Partner: Ahon sa Hirap Inc. (ASHI)

A Business That Grew with Her

Since joining Ahon sa Hirap, Inc. (ASHI) in 2005, Paulina Ragaas has steadily built a livelihood that transformed not just her financial situation, but her family's trajectory. What started as a small venture with two fish cages and a Php 5,000 investment in tilapia fingerlings has grown into a thriving operation of over 30 cages. Her loan journey tells the story of this growth. Starting with just Php 3,000, she now handles loans of up to Php 100,000, and more recently, Php 170,000 through the ASHI RestartME program.

With her husband by her side, Paulina has built a business that doesn’t just sustain but also uplifts. From the income generated, she was able to purchase assets like a vehicle, a tricycle, and even land. Beyond material gains, she invested in what matters most: her children’s education, two of whom have already graduated and are now helping support the family.

Navigating Waters of Uncertainty

However, life on the water is not without its storms. Paulina’s business is highly exposed to calamities. When cages overflow or are destroyed by typhoons, she suffers inventory loss and faces major financial setbacks. Even seasonal changes can affect her product. During the summer, the fish develop a distinct “gilik” taste that affects sales, though ironically, they grow faster by feeding on it. Once the rainy season returns, the taste fades, but so too can growth rates and demand.

The pandemic, however, had limited impact. As part of an essential sector, fishermen like Paulina were given IDs that allowed them to continue operating during lockdowns. Her business remained afloat while others paused, and with ASHI’s financial support, she was able to sustain operations and scale even in uncertain times.

Yet challenges persist. Theft, climate change, and limited access to consistent financial support remain significant barriers. While she has not yet been able to access ASHI’s non-financial programs due to scheduling conflicts, Paulina sees great value in additional training and support, particularly in business management.

Expanding Horizons

Today, Paulina’s work includes bangus (milkfish) production after each tilapia harvest, extending her yield cycle and maximizing returns. Her aspirations remain firmly rooted in family: to secure her children’s welfare, and eventually establish a sustainable fish cage supply business. She knows the waters she works on are uncertain, but with continued support from ASHI, she believes her dreams are within reach.