Cebu City turns upland ponds into tilapia farms

CEBU, Philippines — Tilapia farming is growing in Barangay Tabunan, where Cebu City’s agriculture program is turning upland ponds into productive assets that generate income, strengthen food security, and promote sustainable farming practices.

The Cebu City Agriculture Department (CAD), in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), recently visited the Tabunan project site to monitor its progress.

Farmers Roberto Alemorin and Alfie Sorela, who received tilapia fingerlings and feeds from BFAR, along with pond liner support from CAD, harvested 105 kilograms of tilapia.

Sold at P180 per kilogram, the harvest generated approximately P18,900 in gross sales, which the government sees as a significant boost to the farmers’ livelihood.

Beyond the immediate income, the project promotes integrated farming.

The water from the fish pond can be reused for irrigating crops, allowing farmers to maximize resources while reducing waste.

CAD emphasized that this approach is especially valuable in upland communities like Tabunan, where water management is critical.

The department expressed appreciation to the participating farmers for their commitment to the city’s agricultural programs and extended gratitude to BFAR for its support in providing essential inputs.

The department stressed that this program, such as Tabunan’s tilapia project, is part of the City’s continuing efforts to strengthen food security, diversify livelihood opportunities, and build resilience among farming communities.

The project also ties into a broader agenda of supporting fisherfolk and farmers through partnerships with agencies such as the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), which recently conducted an information session at the CAD office.

These programs aim to protect investments, safeguard livelihoods, and ensure that both fisherfolk and farmers can withstand risks associated with agriculture and aquaculture.

Barangay Tabunan, located in Cebu City’s upland district, has traditionally relied on crop farming.

The introduction of aquaculture provides residents with an alternative livelihood that complements existing practices.

By integrating fish culture with agriculture, Tabunan farmers sustain their households while contributing to the city’s food supply.

Tilapia, often called the “aquatic chicken” for its adaptability and rapid growth, has become one of the world’s most important farmed fish.

In the Philippines, it was introduced in the 1950s and has since grown into the country’s second most consumed fish after bangus.

The Philippines ranks among the top global producers, with Central Luzon and CALABARZON leading output.

Improved strains such as GIFT (Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia) have boosted yields nationwide, helping farmers meet rising demand. — /IHM (FREEMAN)