The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the Ilocos Region (BFAR-1) has reassured the public of a steady supply of milkfish, or bangus, in Pangasinan, despite the typhoons that have battered the region in recent months. This assurance comes in response to concerns about potential shortages and price increases in the Dagupan City public market.
BFAR-1 Director Rosario Segundina Gaerlan emphasized that the current market prices reflect a healthy balance rather than a shortage or surplus, ensuring fair compensation for local fishers while keeping prices affordable for consumers. She noted that although some small-scale producers faced setbacks and temporarily halted operations, the majority continued to cultivate milkfish, maintaining market stability. Many of those who paused have now resumed their activities.
Gaerlan also highlighted the adaptability of milkfish producers, who seek alternative markets when prices at the public fish market, or consignacion, fall. Additionally, some buyers purchase directly from farms, bypassing the consignacion and selling directly to retailers.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, milkfish production in Pangasinan reached 73,533 metric tons in the third quarter of 2024, a significant increase from the 27,000 metric tons produced during the same period in 2023. This surge is credited to the resilience of producers and government support, including the provision of fingerlings, access to alternative markets, and participation in trade fairs.
BFAR continues to support the industry, particularly small-scale operators, by assisting them in finding new markets, supplying necessary inputs like fingerlings, and facilitating direct sales to retailers through events like the Kadiwa markets.
The Samahang Magbabangus sa Pangasinan (SaMaPa) affirmed the strength and health of the milkfish industry, despite a slight uptick in prices. Alex Soriano, president of Tiera Norte Aquaculture operators at the mariculture park in Sual, Pangasinan, reported delivering five tons of milkfish nightly to Magsaysay Market in Dagupan City.
Vendor Rhod Dalaten noted that milkfish prices typically rise during holiday periods due to increased demand from visitors attending local festivities. As of the latest report, prices ranged from PHP180 to PHP190 per kilo for oversized fish over 500 grams, PHP170 to PHP180 per kilo for fish at 500 grams, and PHP120 to PHP160 per kilo for other sizes.