Experts discuss aquaculture growth in Panay, Guimaras

The College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences at the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV-CFOS) participated in a small group discussion aimed at advancing aquaculture initiatives in Panay and Guimaras on July 30, 2024, at Citadines Amigo.

Assistant Professor Fredson Huervana from the Institute of Aquaculture represented UPV-CFOS at the event, organized by the Iloilo Business Club, Inc. The gathering focused on exploring key developments and challenges in the region’s aquaculture sector.

“The discussions are crucial in addressing the pressing issues and exploring the opportunities within our local aquaculture industry,” Huervana said.

The dialogue emphasized strengthening the Iloilo Fish Pond Owners Association and developing a roadmap for the Blue Economy Technical Working Group of the Regional Research Development and Innovation Committee (RRDIC) under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI.

Key topics included the problems faced by milkfish stakeholders in Panay and Guimaras, such as fry sources, quality, production volume, pricing, and competition from Luzon producers. The participants also explored traditional and modern technology-driven methods, diversifying into shrimp and eel aquaculture, and encouraging new investments.

Engr. Rowen Gelonga, DOST Region VI Regional Director, stressed the importance of collaboration. “We need to bring together all relevant sectors to create a cohesive and sustainable plan for our aquaculture industry,” he said.

The meeting also highlighted the potential for state universities and colleges (SUCs) to serve as model aquaculture farms and promote business models encouraging entrepreneurship in aquaculture.

Participants agreed to establish the Panay and Guimaras Fish Alliance, comprising hatchery operators, fishpond owners, processors, academia, research institutions, and regional government agencies including the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and DOST.

An Aquaculture Investment Forum is planned for March 2025 to further these initiatives.

“The formation of the Panay and Guimaras Fish Alliance is a significant step towards achieving a sustainable and thriving aquaculture industry in our region,” Ma. Luisa Segovia, Vice President of the Iloilo Business Club, remarked.

Other notable attendees included Mr. Jessraf Palmares, President of the National ICT Confederation of the Philippines, and Dr. Leobert Dela Peña, Research Division Head at the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center-Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD).

The event marks a collaborative effort to enhance the aquaculture industry in Panay and Guimaras, with the promise of improved production and market expansion through shared expertise and resources. (Ms. Lenilyn B. Gallos, CFOS with sources from Asst. Prof. Fredson Huervana and Iloilo Business Club)