Saturday, September 23, 2006
Koi industry seen to grow in Candaba
By Joel P. Mapiles
CANDABA -- This town, as everyone knows, is the top producer of tilapia in Central Luzon. But did you also know that this town does not only focus on its tilapia industry?
Candaba is also found to be environmentally and physically fit for breeding and raising koi.
With this discovery, the Municipal Government under the leadership of Mayor Jerry Pelayo is pushing for further development of the koi industry within its scope. As of now, several hectares of fishponds in this town, utilized for tilapia growing, are also being used to raise high breed kois.
"Koi grows very fast in these ponds," said Leonardo Manalo, chief of staff of the municipality.
Manalo said the Municipal Government of Candaba envisions koi farming as an alternative business endeavor for fishpond operators who are experiencing over-production of tilapia and low farm-gate prices.
"The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (Bfar) is expected to provide technical assistance while the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will assist in marketing the fish abroad," he said.
He said they will closely monitor the fledgling koi industry as the mayor assures that the koi industry here will adhere to international standards.
Pelayo promised to support the local koi industry in its bid to penetrate the foreign market. Plans are being made to improve farming techniques and pursue aggressive marketing.
For more information, you may contact Engineer Aurelio "Botbot" Tolentino at +63917-5104600, or you may send an email to tclkoiphils@yahoo.com.
You may also get in touch with Leny Manalo, Candaba chief of staff.
(September 22, 2006 issue)
Write letter to the editor. Click here.
Join the Sun.Star message board. Click here. |
