A PHP3.9 million worth of solar-powered ice block machine was inaugurated in Pilar, Cebu to help local fishers preserve fish and other perishable goods.

In a statement Friday, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the ice block machine is crucial to boost the income of local fishers while reducing operating costs in the area.

“With proper icing, fish can remain fresh for up to seven days, allowing fishermen to transport their catch to markets where demand is higher,” he said.

Tiu Laurel said ice plants can extend the shelf life of agricultural goods, including fish.

The project includes the distribution of solar panels, a rack system, a hybrid inverter power plant, two sets of batteries, a water filtration system, a container-type ice block system, stainless steel ice block crusher, a steel-door chest freezer, and plastic fish crates for storage.

It also features a “stainless steel frame, dual compressors compatible with a single-phase electric motor, direct-contact cooling, and an eco-friendly refrigerant.”

The machine can produce a total of 150 kg. of ice per cycle, with each block weighing 5 kg.

It can operate up to four times a day, with around 30 ice block production per cycle. (PNA)