Calling the Philippines a “seafood and aquaculture powerhouse,” former senator and senatorial candidate Kiko Pangilinan vowed to push for the creation of a Department of Fisheries, which would significantly increase budget support for the sector.

He pointed out that while the country is composed of roughly 80 percent water and only 20 percent land, the budget allocation for fisheries remains far behind.

“It’s crucial that we focus on our fisheries and aquatic resources. Eighty percent of our territory is water,” Pangilinan said during a phone interview with Bombo Radyo Cebu on Monday, 14 April.

Pangilinan visited Pangasinan province to promote his platforms of food security and lower food prices.

“Only 20 percent of our landmass is land, yet support for fisheries and aquaculture is lacking. Aquaculture offers a huge opportunity for increased income and food supply for our people,” he added.

If elected in the May 2025 elections, Pangilinan said he would renew his push for a dedicated Department of Fisheries. Currently, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is under the Department of Agriculture.

He emphasized the Philippines’ potential to become a global fisheries leader, being at the center of the world’s most diverse marine ecosystem.

“This means that if we manage our aqua resources well, we can harness their richness. If we care for them, we can even export these products.”

Running an independent campaign, Pangilinan also expressed willingness to work across party lines to push for food security.