The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Caraga (BFAR-13) has started the construction of a PHP26.4-million multispecies hatchery in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur.
The hatchery, located in Barangay Caguyao, will serve fishing families and those who depend on the industry.
BFAR-13 Director Omnia Olama said the groundbreaking on Feb. 14 was a long-awaited development.
“Collaboration between BFAR and the city government of Bislig played a vital role,” Olama said Monday.
The hatchery is designed to produce about 25 million bangus (milkfish) fry annually and cultivate high-value marine products such as pompano, shrimp and crabs.
BFAR-13 chief aquaculturist Rizalinda Abing said the project would also address the country’s reliance on imported bangus fry.
“The Philippines imports about 1.5 million pieces of bangus fry from Indonesia,” she said. “Once fully operational, this project is expected to reduce imports by 85 percent.”
BFAR will fund and oversee the facility’s operations for the first two years.
The project is expected to be completed in 447 days. (PNA)
