In a significant step towards boosting local aquaculture, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Caraga (BFAR-13) has initiated the construction of a PHP26.4-million multispecies hatchery in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur. The groundbreaking event, held on February 14, 2025, in Barangay Caguyao, was led by BFAR-Caraga Director Omnia Olama and Bislig City Mayor Florencio Garay. This facility is set to produce approximately 25 million milkfish fry each year and will also focus on cultivating high-value marine species such as pompano, shrimp, and crabs. The project is a collaborative effort between BFAR and the local government of Bislig, aimed at supporting fishing communities and reducing the nation’s dependence on imported milkfish fry. According to BFAR-13’s chief aquaculturist Rizalinda Abing, the hatchery could cut the importation of milkfish fry from Indonesia by 85 percent once operational. BFAR will manage and finance the facility for its initial two years, with the entire project expected to be completed in 447 days.
