DA Invests P190 Million in Modern Fish Ports to Strengthen Davao Fisheries and Food Security
MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is investing nearly ₱190 million in the construction of two modern municipal fish ports in Davao del Sur, reinforcing the government's commitment to modernize fisheries infrastructure, improve food security, and increase the incomes of Filipino fisherfolk.
The projects, implemented through the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), form part of the Marcos administration's broader strategy to enhance the country's fisheries sector by reducing post-harvest losses, improving market access, and strengthening the national food supply chain.
During an inspection of the ongoing fish port developments in the municipalities of Malalag and Sta. Cruz, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the importance of investing in modern fisheries infrastructure.
"Modern fish ports are investments in food security," Tiu Laurel said.
"By reducing post-harvest losses and improving the movement of fish from our coastal communities to consumers, we strengthen the country's food supply while helping our fisherfolk earn more from every catch."
PFDA Acting General Manager Glen Pangapalan said the projects are designed to strengthen every stage of the fisheries value chain—from landing and handling to processing and distribution.
"Our goal is to strengthen the entire fisheries value chain, reduce losses, improve food distribution, and contribute to inclusive economic growth in our coastal communities," Pangapalan said.
He added that every new fish port represents a long-term investment in the future of Philippine fisheries by providing modern post-harvest facilities that improve efficiency, increase market access, and create better economic opportunities for fisherfolk, traders, processors, and other stakeholders.
Beyond supporting local fish production, the twin fish port projects are expected to generate employment during both construction and operation while attracting investments in cold storage facilities, fish processing, logistics, transportation, and other related industries.
Construction of Phase 2 of the Malalag Municipal Fish Port in Barangay Baybay is currently underway and is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2027. The expansion includes reclamation and site development, utility systems, a fish trading hall, warehouse, administration building, and additional support facilities that will significantly enhance fish handling, storage, and distribution capabilities.
The first phase of the Malalag Municipal Fish Port was completed in 2024, providing the municipality with its first modern fish landing and trading facility.
Meanwhile, the Sta. Cruz Municipal Fish Port in Barangay Bato is targeted for completion during the early months of next year. Once operational, the facility will include a market hall, ice plant stall, food hub, administration building, access roads, and other essential infrastructure designed to centralize fish unloading and trading activities while improving post-harvest operations and market accessibility for local fishing communities.
The DA said the new municipal fish ports are expected to play a vital role in strengthening Davao del Sur's fisheries industry by increasing productivity, reducing food losses, supporting coastal livelihoods, and ensuring a more efficient and resilient seafood supply chain for consumers across the region.
NPO NEWS TEAM | PNA-PR
