BFAR assures sufficient fish supply for Holy Week

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) assures the public of an adequate fish supply for the upcoming Holy Week, a period when demand typically rises.

BFAR Spokesperson Nazario Briguera stated that sufficient output is expected because fishing areas have reopened after a shutdown for spawning and the country is in its peak fishing season.

While the Oriental Mindoro oil spill may reduce fish output in affected areas, BFAR does not anticipate a national shortage.

BFAR is addressing challenges such as high fuel prices through a subsidy program and the use of payao technology for small-scale fisherfolk.

The bureau is also implementing post-harvest interventions to combat spoilage, which currently ranges from 25 to 40 percent due to a lack of equipment like cold storage facilities.

The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that the country produced approximately 4.34 million metric tons of fish in fiscal year 2022, exceeding the previous year's output and the DA's target.