Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Thursday that it is expediting the expansion of the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) - Bulan Fish Port Complex (BFPC) in Sorsogon. This initiative is part of the government's efforts to modernize the country's fisheries infrastructure in accordance with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

According to Philippines News Agency, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized that the completion of the modern fishery and agri-logistics hub will benefit fishers and consumers in southern Luzon and neighboring provinces. Citing the President's directive, he stressed the importance of accelerating the project's realization by the end of 2027 to avoid missed income and investment opportunities.

PFDA acting General Manager Glen Pangapalan highlighted that the expansion is a testament to the government's commitment to enhancing the entire fisheries value chain. He stated that the enhanced Bulan Fish Port Complex will include facilities such as cold storage, blast freezers, flake ice facilities, smokehouses, and fish-drying areas, along with an extended quayside to accommodate more fishing vessels.

The improvements aim to enhance various operations, from fish landing to processing, storage, transport, and marketing. Pangapalan noted that the modernized hub will reduce post-harvest losses, create jobs, and increase fisherfolk earnings by maintaining the quality and value of their catch.

The government has allocated PHP150 million for the initial phase of the expansion this year, with an additional PHP650 million budgeted for subsequent phases. The recently operational PHP96.7-million ice plant, capable of supplying 1,200 blocks of 50-kg ice per day, is expected to significantly reduce post-harvest losses by keeping fish fresh for up to seven days. This extension in shelf life allows fishers more time to reach better-paying markets.