Navotas: The Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) has approved PHP1.6 billion for the upgrading of the Navotas Fish Port Complex (NFPC) and the construction of a modern fish port in San Vicente, Palawan. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., who also chairs the PFDA Board, emphasized the NFPC modernization project's potential to transform the port into a future trading hub for fish and agricultural commodities.

According to Philippines News Agency, the project includes upgrading PFDA-NFPC Market Halls 3 to 7, enhancing road networks and parking facilities, and constructing a welcome center. The rehabilitation also covers upgrading buildings and facilities at Market Halls 1 and 2 under Phase III of the PFDA-NFPC Modernization Program and Phase II of the PFDA-NFPC Shipyard Development Project. Tiu Laurel highlighted expansion opportunities in the complex's northern and northeastern sections, with a planned shipyard expected to decongest operations and enhance support for fishing vessels.

PFDA Acting General Manager Glen Pangapalan indicated the upgrades will benefit more stakeholders by expanding the complex's area by almost 25 hectares. The NFPC, a crucial supplier of fresh fish for Metro Manila, currently supports at least 30,000 individuals, with numbers rising to 50,000 during peak seasons.

Meanwhile, the San Vicente Modern Fish Port in Palawan aims to provide economic benefits for local municipal fisherfolk operating in the West Philippine Sea. It is estimated to directly benefit over 2,000 individuals and indirectly benefit more than 20,000 people across the fisheries value chain. The project is poised to enhance access to modern fish landing, handling, storage, and marketing facilities, thereby reducing post-harvest losses and increasing the value of fishers' catch.