P10-M fish hatchery in Albay to boost Bicol aquaculture sector

A P10-million fish hatchery broke ground in Albay recently to boost the aquaculture sector in the Bicol Region, according to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

The Albay Provincial Multi-Species Freshwater Hatchery at the Albay Farmers Bounty Village in Camalig town will serve as a breeding and grow-out site, as well as a training hub for freshwater species, including tilapia, catfish, carp, and other indigenous fish.

BFAR said various fisheries interventions were also distributed during the groundbreaking ceremony on April 17, including three units of high-density polyethylene marine cages for the Fatima Fisherfolks and Farmers Agriculture Cooperative.

A techno-demo project for tilapia culture, along with farm inputs and tilapia fingerlings, was also provided to fisherfolk from the municipalities of Daraga, Polangui and Camalig.

Opportunities

BFAR Regional Director Ariel Pioquinto said the fish hatchery project is expected to strengthen the aquaculture sector in the region, benefiting fishers and aquaculture operators in Albay and nearby provinces.

Pioquinto added that the project will help create livelihood opportunities for fisherfolk in the community.

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Meanwhile, BFAR also turned over an P11.5-million fishing vessel to fisherfolk in Cagwait, Surigao del Sur, to boost their catch and strengthen their livelihoods.

The Cagwait Fish Broker Association received the 62-foot fiber-reinforced plastic handline fishing vessel from BFAR under the government’s Capacitating Municipal Fisherfolk Program.

BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig urged beneficiaries to take good care of the vessel.