AN OFFICIAL of the Bureau of Fishery and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) expressed apprehension that there will be less production of sardines as an aftermath of Tropical Storm "Vinta" that hit the country last month.
This apprehension was shared by BFAR Assistant Regional Director Al-Zath Kunting citing the main source of of food of the fish have been destroyed by flood and landslide brought about by the onslaught of the storm.
Kunting said the massive flood that hit the coastal towns of Sibuco, Sirawai, Siocon and Gutalac in Zamboanga del Norte has destroyed the breeding area and habitat of fish.
Data showed that the coasts of the four towns including Baliguian municipality, an adjacent town of Siocon, are the main source of sardines, locally known as "tamban."
Tamban is the main raw fish for sardine-making by the 12 canning factories based in Zamboanga City and seven bottled-sardine producers in Dipolog City.