A new multi-species marine hatchery is set to be constructed in Barangay San Agustin, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, in a grand vision to revive the province’s once-thriving bangus (milkfish) industry.

According to Municipal Agriculturist Romel Calingasan, the hatchery, which will be run by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) for two years before being transferred to the local government, will supply bangus fry, tilapia fingerlings, and other marine species to fish farmers within and outside Mindoro island.

The construction of the hatchery, funded by BFAR with a budget of P30.56 million, is expected to begin this month and be completed within eight months.

Calingasan expressed optimism that the new hatchery will revive the bangus industry in the province, which had faced setbacks due to the lack of sufficient supplies of bangus fry.

Mindoreño fish farmers had to import fry from distant locations, resulting in high mortality rates and forcing many to switch to other livelihoods.

The milkfish industry is an enormous contributor to the Philippine economy, employing over 800,000 individuals and providing a source of protein for Filipino communities.

However, the industry faces challenges such as rising production costs, inconsistent fry supply, and competition from other aquaculture products.

BFAR said the construction of the new hatchery in Mindoro will revive the industry and increase the number of bangus farmers.

The milkfish industry in the Philippines is a vital part of the country’s aquaculture, contributing to both local economies and food security.

The industry is primarily based in brackishwater ponds, with key practices including pond management, polyculture, selective breeding, and cage farming.

Despite its importance, the industry faces challenges such as rising production costs, inconsistent fry supply, and competition from other aquaculture products.

The Philippine government has initiated support programs to enhance infrastructure, provide training, and improve marketing strategies to bolster the industry.

The demand for milkfish remains strong, with the per capita consumption of milkfish approximately 2 kg annually, representing 7.5% of total fish consumption per Filipino.

The industry also shows promise in developing value-added products from surplus production to enhance its marketability.

However, the industry must navigate several challenges, including disease management, market competition, and sustainability practices.

Continued investment in research, technology transfer, and community engagement will be essential for the industry’s future success.