February 18, 2022

The Philippines to set up aquaculture hatcheries to improve fish supply

The Philippines' Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is looking to setup more legislated hatcheries intended for fry production to expand the country's aquaculture sector, the Philippine News Agency reported.

Cheryl Caballero, Department of Agriculture's Undersecretary for Agri-Industrialization and for Fisheries said the fingerlings will be sent to satellite nurseries and domestic operators.

She said this includes fry production for tilapia, pompano, and siganid fishes.

Caballero said with the Department of Agriculture promoting aquaculture, it will mitigate losses of fisheries production, especially during typhoons.

The Department of Agriculture cited Typhoon Odette that hit the fisheries industry with PHP 3.97 billion (~US$77 million; PHP 10 = US$0.19) in damages.

The creation of more legislated fish hatcheries was proposed by Senator Cynthia Villar to ensure the Philippines' marine product supply sustainability.

-      Philippine News Agency