Aquaculture is a vital part of the Philippines’ economy, contributing significantly to food security, livelihoods, and export revenues. To highlight advancements and current initiatives in this sector, Dr. Christopher Joseph Rayos, Chief Science Research Specialist of the DA-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI), delivered a talk on July 31, 2024, in Cagayan de Oro City.

“Modernizing agri-fishery increases efficiency and productivity, helping meet growing food demands while reducing costs, minimizing environmental impact, and enhancing produce quality for a more sustainable sector,” said Dr. Rayos, citing mechanization and modernization as one of the directions and strategies in Philippine aquaculture.

Among the advancements he cited were digital farming innovations such as artificial intelligence, smart sensing, digital feeding, underwater drone data collectors, and virtual reality. He also mentioned progress in fish meal replacement, disease prevention and vaccines, and biotechnology and genetic improvement, among others.

For ongoing NFRDI initiatives, he mentioned the Technology Business Incubation (TBI) program aimed at raising income of fisherfolk through R&D, formulation of low-cost feeds specific for milkfish and tilapia, verification of aquashading technology in different agro-climatic conditions, and biotechnology program.

“As the research arm for fisheries, NFRDI will continue to drive innovations in the aquaculture sector, enhancing its contributions to food security, creating employment opportunities, and developing sustainable scientific methods to nourish our nation,” Dr. Rayos added.

Other topics highlighted were potential investments in production support, access and availability of agri-credit and insurance, establishing cooperatives, improving value chains in the context of clustering and consolidating, and promoting sustainable development fishing technologies.

The “First Regional Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation Conference” was organized by the DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 10 to assist fisherfolk organizations in gaining a clearer understanding of their vital roles in developing the fishery sector, exchanging best practices, and establishing strong networks and partnerships. ### (Rita dela Cruz)