May 30, 2008

Philippines to expand mariculture zones in East Visayas

The Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) announced plans to establish more mariculture zones in the Eastern Visayas.

Last year, the existing 14 mariculture zones in the region produced 6,592 tonnes worth PHP593.28 million, up by 22 percent on-year.

Juan Albaladejo, BFAR regional director, said that mariculture zones are the region's assets.

The mariculture zones have consistently increased output since it began in 2003. In 2006, the zones produced 5,400 tonnes, almost double the 2005 output of 3,084 tonnes.

BFAR assistant regional director Justerie Granali said the area has 5,550 hectares of mariculture parks with 484 fish cages as of 2007.

The establishment of these cages cost around PHP200 million.

The mariculture zones are designed to produce fish like bangus, siganids, groupers and red snappers.

The zones can also accommodate seaweeds farming, aquasilviculture, mussel culture, oyster culture, sea-ranching of lobsters and seahorses in coral reefs and sea grass areas.

US$1 = PHP43.75 as of May 30, 2008