By Reggie Vizmanos
Apr 82 min
Fish farmers in Batanes will soon have access to local tilapia fingerlings as the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) and the Local Government of Itbayat inaugurate the province’s first-ever Municipal Tilapia Hatchery in Barangay Raele, Itbayat, Batanes.
Located strategically in an area with a freshwater lake conducive to aquaculture, the hatchery is expected to boost tilapia production sustainably in the northernmost part of the Philippines. I Photo: Philippine Information Agency
Equipped with breeding, nursery, treatment, and conditioning ponds, as well as essential water systems, the facility aims to produce 300-500 thousand tilapia fingerlings annually. This output will not only meet the needs of Itbayat but also support the entire province, aiding in achieving self-sufficiency in tilapia fingerling supply.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. commended the local government and fish farmers in a video message, expressing how the hatchery eliminates the need for transporting fingerlings from other provinces, saving costs and reducing fish mortality.
He emphasized the project's alignment with the Department of Agriculture’s goal to make agriculture and fisheries viable investment options.
Currently, Batanes relies on fingerling supplies from Isabela and Cagayan, transported through lengthy land travel and flights, resulting in significant mortality rates. The hatchery aims to mitigate these challenges, reducing input costs, and increasing fish farmers’ income.
Located strategically in an area with a freshwater lake conducive to aquaculture, the hatchery is expected to boost tilapia production sustainably in the northernmost part of the Philippines.
While marine resources remain the primary livelihood, the hatchery provides an alternative source of income, particularly during typhoon-prone periods.
The Provincial Fishery Office of Batanes reported increased interest in tilapia farming among locals, with many constructing their tanks. This trend is expected to bridge fish supply gaps during lean seasons.
In addition to the hatchery inauguration, DA-BFAR conducted a fisherfolk forum and distributed fish cages and fishing gear in Itbayat to support livelihoods.
The DA-BFAR operates a Provincial Fishery Satellite Office in Barangay San Rafael to ensure support for remote fishing communities like Itbayat, promoting sustainable fishing practices and aquaculture initiatives, and fostering collaborative fisheries governance.