Pampanga Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda (center) joins officials of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) during the 3rd National Bangus Congress held on October 14–16 at Royce Hotel, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, where industry stakeholders discussed strategies to strengthen milkfish production, promote aquaculture innovation and expand market opportunities for fish farmers.( Pampanga PIO)
CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga — Government agencies, fish farmers, industry leaders and investors are pushing for climate-resilient production, improved aquaculture technology and expanded markets to strengthen the Philippine milkfish industry amid the threat of El Niño and changing weather conditions.
These priorities took center stage at the 3rd National Bangus Congress held October 14–16 at Royce Hotel in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, bringing together stakeholders to identify practical solutions to production challenges and protect the livelihoods of families dependent on the fisheries sector.
Led by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the congress focused on strengthening the industry’s capacity to sustain production, maintain product quality and expand business opportunities across the milkfish value chain.
In her opening message, Pampanga Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda called for a unified action agenda involving government agencies, local governments, industry leaders, researchers, investors, fish farmers and fisherfolk.
“As we gather today, I call on government agencies, local government, industry leaders, researchers, investors, fish farmers and fisherfolks to develop a unified action agenda for the Philippine milkfish industry. Let us identify our producers’ most urgent challenges and agree on practical solutions,” Pineda said.
She emphasized the importance of research, modern technology and sustainable aquaculture practices in addressing production risks while protecting the livelihoods of fish farmers and conserving aquatic resources.
Pampanga Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda (center) joins officials of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) during the 3rd National Bangus Congress held on October 14–16 at Royce Hotel, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, where industry stakeholders discussed strategies to strengthen milkfish production, promote aquaculture innovation and expand market opportunities for fish farmers. (Pampanga PIO)
Key discussions covered water resource management, water-quality monitoring, mega-hatchery development, production efficiency and market expansion. These areas are critical to improving farm productivity, ensuring reliable supplies of bangus and helping producers cope with climate-related risks.
The congress also featured an industry exhibit showcasing aquaculture equipment, feeds, bangus fry and fingerlings, and technologies designed to improve fish farming operations.
Processed seafood products, including garlic-and-herb gourmet fillets, naturally smoked pure belly, bangus sisig and breaded shrimp, were also showcased, highlighting opportunities to increase product value through processing and diversification.
Value-added products can open additional revenue streams for producers and processors by expanding product offerings beyond fresh fish and reaching consumers with different preferences.
The Philippine Milkfish Industry Group (PHILMIG) also participated in the event, alongside BFAR Assistant Director for Technical Services Isidro M. Velayo Jr. and National Director Elizer S. Salilig.
The gathering underscored the importance of stronger coordination among government, research institutions and private businesses in developing a more productive and competitive milkfish industry.
By addressing climate risks, improving production technologies and developing new markets, industry stakeholders aim to strengthen the supply chain and sustain the economic contribution of bangus farming to Filipino livelihoods and food security.