June 17, 2025

New aquaculture feed mill facility set for construction in Capiz, Philippines

The Philippine Senate has approved the construction of an aquaculture feed mill plant in Barangay Bahit, Panay, Capiz, with 21 senators voting in favour of the measure on June 9, 2025.

No senator voted against the bill, and none abstained.

The initiative stems from House Bill No. 7500, originally passed by the House of Representatives through the efforts of 1st District's Representative Emmanuel "Tawi" Billones and 2nd District's Representative Jane Castro. The bill aims to establish a facility that will produce fish feeds to support local fisherfolk and boost the province's aquaculture industry.

According to the bill, the feed mill is projected to produce 30 metric tonnes of fish feed daily — equivalent to about 30% of Capiz's feed consumption. Raw materials will be sourced locally within the province.

"Raw materials are readily available in Capiz," Castro emphasised during her opening statement at the Senate hearing.

The project will be one of the largest aquaculture feed mill plants funded by the national government under the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR). It is also expected to come with assistance programs for farmers and fisherfolk.

"Capiz is known as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines because of its rich aquatic natural resources. We have 16,292 hectares of brackish water ponds and 1,340 fish farm operators. Capiz ranks first in Western Visayas — and even nationwide — in milkfish production, based on 2023 PSA data," said Castro. "However, we currently source our fish feeds from Cebu and Manila, which increases production costs. Establishing a feed mill in Barangay Bahit, Panay will significantly reduce those expenses."

Castro further emphasised the economic impact: "Aquaculture businesses contribute greatly to our national economy. This feed mill plant will help our fishermen and aquaculture entrepreneurs improve their income and livelihoods."

Senator Cynthia A. Villar, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, also filed a bill proposing the feed mill's establishment.

"The establishment of a feed mill in the province of Capiz will directly benefit our fish farmers by ensuring a steady supply of nutrient-rich and affordable feed. This is a vital step in boosting productivity, promoting sustainability, and reducing the financial burden on our local aquaculture sector," Villar said.

Feed costs typically account for up to 70% of aquaculture production expenses. The facility is expected to significantly lower this burden, while stimulating the regional economy, enhancing food security, and maintaining the country's competitive edge as a leading aquaculture producer in Southeast Asia.

The consolidated bill has been adopted by both chambers of Congress and is now awaiting the President's signature to be enacted into law.

-      Panay News