KALIBO, Aklan – The House Committee on Aquaculture and Fisheries Resources and the Committee on Appropriations approved a bill seeking to establish a fish port in Tangalan, Aklan.
On May 30, the committees tackled House Bill No. 8460, introduced by Aklan 2nd District Rep. Teodorico Haresco, Jr.
The substitute bill titled “An Act Establishing a Fish Port in the Municipality of Tangalan, Province of Aklan, and Appropriating Funds Therefor” aims to provide a hub for the processing and distribution of fish products in Western Visayas.
The establishment of a fish port will also benefit local fishermen from Tangalan and nearby communities by providing livelihood opportunities and economic development.
“The increased economic activity brought about by the fish port can contribute to the development of the region and the country as a whole. Moreover, it ensures a stable supply of fresh fish products, which will help meet the nutritional needs of local communities,” Haresco added.
The Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture, will conduct a full-scale feasibility study in support of the construction of the fish port.
After the construction, the PFDA will transfer the management of the fish port to the local government unit of Tangalan through a memorandum of agreement.
PFDA will also handle the training and phasing-in for local government personnel on the port’s management and operation./PN