RECOGNIZING the importance of linking producers, buyers, and other players in the fisheries industry as well as providing new perspectives on technology commercialization, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) on Tuesday kicked off the Fisheries Investment Forum and Exhibit at Robinsons Starmills, City of Pampanga.
The two-day event, which gathered agri-prenuers and entrepreneurs from all over Central Luzon, was highlighted by informative discussions on topics such as business opportunities in fish processing and adapting to the challenges of Tilapia culture.
Moreover, the event also served as a viable venue for the fisherfolk to display their own produce while partner institutions got to showcase their R&D breakthroughs including innovative products, services, and commerciable technologies.
BFAR Central Luzon Director Lilian Garcia shared that it is important to provide marketing and promotional assistance to both parties, to further boost the region’s diverse and robust fisheries industry.
“We are one of the major contributors of food sufficiency in terms of aqua culture and the leading producer of Tilapia, bangus, and sugpo nationwide. With that said, it is essential that we work hand in hand with the industry players so we can bring out their full potential and help them profit and increase productivity, which eventually will improve our overall production in the region,” she said.
She added that BFAR will continue to aid fisherfolk through the help of the private sector and local government units in the region.
“There are many helping us. We are not alone in this mission of empowering our fisherfolk and MSMEs. We believe that we can sustain the momentum of our fisheries industry as we continue to build strong partnership with our stakeholders,” she noted.
Feedmix Specialist Inc. II Communications Head Grace Balanza, for her part, expressed support to BFAR and the local fish farmers.
“We are one with BFAR in its vision to grow the fisheries industry here in Central Luzon, where we actually have the most number of customers. It is our endeavor to provide fisherfolk a wide variety of advanced technology, so that together we can create a more sustainable future,” she said.
Santeh Feeds Corp. Marketing Administrator Dennis Rito, also shared the same message.
“We are really committed on reaching out to our fish farmers because they are the ones who really need support when it comes to the technical and business side of the aqua culture investments. Of course, we also help them by providing high-quality and affordable products that fit their demands,” he said.