News Details

PBBM, DA Chief Open ?885-M Upgraded Iloilo Fish Port Complex

NPO

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August 15, 2025

ILOILO CITY – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday inaugurated the ₱885.1-million modernization and capacity expansion of the Iloilo Fish Port Complex, the only Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) regional fish port in the Visayas.

Serving as a key hub for fisheries trade and agro-fishery businesses in Western Visayas, the upgraded complex features commercial leasing spaces and a strategic harbor location ideal for inter-island commerce—set to drive regional economic growth.

In line with the President’s push for green-powered infrastructure, the port now runs a 390-kilowatt-peak solar photovoltaic system with 1,152 solar panel modules installed across market, refrigeration, cold storage, commercial, administrative, and public facilities.

“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,” said Tiu Laurel, PFDA Board chair and former deep-sea fishing company head.

PFDA Acting General Manager Atty. Glen A. Pangapalan said the facility’s upgrade is “a lasting promise to build a fisheries sector capable of fueling our nation’s growth and prosperity for decades ahead,” as PFDA nears its 50th anniversary in 2026.

The Iloilo Fish Port Complex supports over 1,400 fisheries players, including 21 licensed fish brokers, 503 traders (viajeros), 66 overland suppliers, seven vessel operators, and 37 retailers—forming an integrated, fast-moving supply chain that sources from the rich fishing grounds of Iloilo, Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, and parts of Negros.

—NPO News Team I DA-PR