Iloilo City: Around 600,000 larvae of tiger shrimps (Penaeus monodon), locally known as "sugpo," are currently stocked in two earthen ponds at the Dumangas Brackishwater Station of the Southeast Asian Fisheries and Development Center Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD) here. The larvae were harvested from the biosecure hatchery at SEAFDEC/AQD's main station in Tigbauan, Iloilo on May 20.

According to Philippines News Agency, these larvae, produced using wild spawners from Carles, Iloilo, were used to seed another grow-out run under SEAFDEC/AQD's 'Oplan Balik Sugpo' program. Grow-out culture involves raising the tiger shrimp from juvenile to harvest size in ponds or cages. The larvae are expected to be harvested after 120 days of culture.

The "Oplan Balik Sugpo" program, initiated by SEAFDEC/AQD chief Dan Baliao, seeks to revive the once-thriving black tiger shrimp sector in the country. The program focuses on improving local broodstock, strengthening biosecurity practices, and promoting sustainable farming approaches. It also supports local shrimp farmers by supplying robust, hatchery-reared fry with higher survival rates that can improve farm yields and boost profitability.

By producing disease-free and locally sourced larvae, the program aims to reduce dependence on imported shrimp stocks and help shield farms from disease outbreaks. Last year, SEAFDEC/AQD yielded five tons of tiger shrimp from 200,000 postlarvae, highlighting the program's success in enhancing shrimp production in the region.