The Department of Agriculture (DA) has assured that the government stands ready to asisst pompano farming at every stage, from production to marketing, to guarantee its success.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. said the DA will support the Silaguin Bay Fish Farm in increasing local pompano production through the efforts of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

In 2022, data from the government revealed that the domestic production of pompano (scientific name trichinous blochii) was a mere 457 metric tons, constituting less than three percent of the total imports of 16,004 tons for the same year.

The private fishing firm Santeh Feeds Corp. located on the coast of San Antonio Zambales has been collaborating with the government to raise pompano production, recognizing it as a high-value alternative to milkfish.

Laurel commended the aqua manufacturer for helping in the decrease of fish imports, which not only provides consumers with a healthier protein source but also creates opportunities for pompano exportation.

“We recognize and underscore your unique contributions to the fisheries industry like aquaculture research and use of new technology in the production of fish [like pampano],” Laurel said in a statement.

Because of Santeh Feeds’ aquaculture project, they can provide support to the government’s agenda of mariculture park expansion and fishery promotion.

Likewise, the agriculture chief stated, “The government is ready to extend assistance from production to post-harvest to marketing to ensure the pompano culture in the country succeeds.”

Currently, the Silaguin Bay Fish Farm has around 44 floating cages, with each yielding three to four tons of the said fish.

According to the fishery firm, pompano culturing will take nine months.

Approximately 500 grams of the fish will be allocated to the local market, while larger pompano fish reaching 800 grams will be set aside for export.

With the recent plans to expand mariculture parks and aquaculture modernization, the BFAR is also prepared to elevate the local pompano production.

“BFAR could assist in locally breeding the short-finned variety by helping set up specialized facilities and equipment,” the DA wrote.

The agriculture sector continues to improve fish production by modernization that ensures food security.