Fish ports across Philippines set for modernization

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has launched a nationwide modernization program for major fish ports under the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) to enhance competitiveness, strengthen local livelihoods and promote sustainable agri-fishery enterprises.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the initiative during the Navotas Business Conference, emphasizing the need to transform traditional fishing hubs such as Navotas into modern agri-fishery business centers that can generate jobs, attract investments and develop entrepreneurship.

Tiu Laurel said the PFDA modernization program includes upgrading port infrastructure, cold storage facilities, and logistics systems to improve efficiency and help fisherfolk earn higher incomes.

The PFDA currently manages regional ports and oversees the development of 136 project sites under the Municipal Fish Ports Program.

The DA said the project aims to ensure that fish landing sites are equipped to handle, preserve and distribute products properly, adding value to every kilo landed while maintaining competitive prices for consumers.

According to Tiu Laurel, the modernization effort also seeks to make fish ports more resilient to challenges such as extreme weather events, rising fuel costs and shifting global market conditions.

He outlined three key priorities including building climate-resilient infrastructure, promoting science-based practices and stabilizing logistics and supply chains.

“Resilience means having systems that can adapt and recover quickly. We want every port, especially Navotas, to not just bounce back after a disaster, but to forge ahead stronger and smarter,” Tiu Laurel said.

He also said that coordination among the government, the private sector, and local communities is essential to support food producers and ensure a stable and affordable supply of fish nationwide.