Fish port proposal passes last reading

CEBU, Philippines - The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a bill for the establishment of a fish port in Minglanilla town.

In House Bill 4876, filed by Cebu first district Representative Gerald Anthony "Samsam" Gullas  Jr., provides for the construction of a fish port in the town.

The bill says it will be very beneficial to the fisherfolk as it will provide a more simplified and organized trading, as well as the easy facilitation or handling of fishery products right from its source down to the middlemen.

Under the bill, the fish port shall be under the supervision of the Department of Agriculture through the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority in coordination with the local government unit concerned.

The PFDA and the LGU concerned shall formulate the rules and regulations necessary for the effective implementation.

Recently, the Committee on Aquaculture and Fisheries Resources headed by Cebu fourth district Representative Benhur Salimbangon and the Committee on Appropriations headed by Davao City Representative Isidro Ungab have pushed for the approval of House Bill 2093.

Minglanilla town is considered a major hub of fishing activity in Cebu, supplying fish and other marine products not only to its townspeople but also to neighboring cities of Naga and Carcar, as well as the town of San Fernando.

The LGU shall also set aside funds from any available local revenues in an amount deemed appropriate for its operationalization. —  Garry B. Lao (FREEMAN)