PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. led the inauguration of the rehabilitated and upgraded Philippine Fisheries Development Authority – Iloilo Fish Port Complex (PFDA-IFPC) in Barangay Tanza-Baybay, City Proper District, Iloilo City on August 13, 2025.
Marcos and Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday inaugurated the upgraded IFPC, an P885,135,614 modernization and capacity expansion project of the PFDA.
The IFPC, the only PFDA regional fish port in the Visayas, serves as a hub for fisheries trade and agro-fishery businesses in Western Visayas.
Its commercial leasing spaces and natural harbor location support inter-island trade and are expected to boost regional economic activity.
Marcos said about 1,500 fishermen will be using our rehabilitated fish port. This is a significant development because the changes made to this facility allow us to perform many functions that were previously impossible.
"Cold storage is crucial for preventing spoilage of caught fish and ensuring fresh delivery even when the destination is far, thus maintaining high selling prices and ensuring the freshness of the fish upon arrival," Marcos said.
Aligned with the President’s vision for green-powered infrastructure, the complex now operates a 390-kilowatt-peak solar photovoltaic system using 1,152 solar panel modules installed on the market hall, refrigeration and cold storage facilities, commercial and administration buildings, and public toilets.
“This milestone reflects our shared mission to bring essential services closer to those who depend on the sea. It gives hope to many who rely on the ocean’s bounty,” Tiu Laurel said.
Tiu Laurel, who also chairs the PFDA Board and headed a deep-sea fishing company before joining the Cabinet in 2023, praised PFDA’s 49 years of service to the fisheries sector as the agency prepares for its golden anniversary next year.
PFDA Acting General Manager Lawyer Glen A. Pangapalan said the IFPC is “more than a facility, it is a lasting promise to every Filipino that we are building a fisheries sector capable of fueling our nation’s growth and prosperity for decades ahead.”
“As PFDA approaches its 50th anniversary, we are not merely upgrading ports; we are shaping world-class, sustainable, and resilient hubs that honor our seas, empower our people, and secure the Philippines’ place as a strong and proud maritime nation,” Pangapalan added.
At the Iloilo International Airport, Major General Michael G. Samson, commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, welcomed Marcos before proceeding to the fish port facility.
Completed in March 2025, the upgraded facility now features modern infrastructure and expanded capacity to enhance service delivery to clients and stakeholders in the fishing industry.
Samson commended the President for his continued focus on regional development and food security, noting the port’s significance in sustaining the local economy and supporting fishing communities.
“The President’s presence here today underscores the national government’s dedication to uplifting the lives of our people through infrastructure that empowers local industries," Samson said.
Samson said the Army is prepared to support initiatives aimed at enhancing peace, progress, and prosperity in Iloilo City and the Western Visayas region.
The IFPC now supports more than 1,500 workers in the fisheries industry. Inside the market hall are 21 licensed fish brokers with 369 helpers, 503 fish traders (viajeros) assisted by 344 aides, 66 overland suppliers, seven vessel operators, and 37 retailers with 74 staff members.
The port sources its catch from various fishing grounds in Western Visayas, including coastal towns in Iloilo, neighboring provinces such as Aklan, Antique, Capiz, and Guimaras, as well as parts of Negros. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)