The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Eastern Visayas, in partnership with the Ormoc City government, will launch the PHP12-million Ormoc Mariculture Park in December 2025 to boost local fish production and support fisherfolk livelihoods.
According to BFAR regional director Dominador Maputol, the project aims to increase the production of milkfish (bangus) and other high-value fish species while promoting sustainable mariculture practices among fisherfolk communities.
Eight fisherfolk associations with over 400 members will benefit from four circular HDPE (high-density polyethylene) fish cages and four modular HDPE cages, along with fingerlings and feeds for one cropping cycle.
The project’s first batch of beneficiaries is expected to begin operations next month, with the first harvest projected in the second half of 2026, yielding an estimated 38 metric tons of milkfish annually.
Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez pledged 20 units of 5×5 bamboo cages as the city’s counterpart support to extend assistance to individual fisherfolk households.
BFAR also proposed the establishment of a local feed mill managed by the city government to strengthen Ormoc’s aquaculture industry and create more livelihood opportunities for coastal residents.
The launching event will feature the Ormoc Mariculture Forum, bringing together service providers, suppliers, processors, and fabricators involved in aquaculture technology and materials.