(FILE) According to the National Federation of Small Fisherfolk Organizations in the Philippines, or Pamalakaya, around 80 percent of the WPS fishers' income is now devoted to fuel, which is continuously rising in price.
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President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the government will construct 10 brand-new modern fish ports across the country as part of a broader push to uplift the lives of the Philippines’ estimated 2.2 million fisherfolk.
Speaking at the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated Iloilo Fish Port Complex, Marcos emphasized the importance of efficient port infrastructure in increasing fisherfolk earnings and improving the country’s fish distribution system.
“Malaking bagay po ito dahil nga pinapalapit natin sa market ang ating mga mangingisda (This is a big step forward because we are bringing our fisherfolk closer to the market),” Marcos said.
“Iyon po ang konsepto namin para ‘yung imbes na may binabayaran na middleman, kung ano ‘yung binabayad ninyo sa middleman ay hindi na kailangan, nasa sa inyo na ‘yun (Instead of paying middlemen, that income will now stay in the hands of the fishermen. That’s the goal),” he continued.
Marcos said the Iloilo facility—which currently serves around 1,500 fisherfolk—demonstrates how modern fish ports can help boost the local economy, reduce post-harvest losses, and allow fishers to sell directly to consumers and traders.
The President revealed that 10 new fish ports, not just rehabilitated facilities, are planned for construction in key areas across the country.
These ports aim to support sustainable fishing practices, ensure hygienic handling of fish catch, and attract more businesses and even tourism to coastal communities.
“This, I believe, is one of the most important projects we are undertaking through the Department of Agriculture,” Marcos said.
“These are not rehabilitations—they will be entirely new facilities.”
Marcos also expressed hope that the upgraded Iloilo Fish Port Complex will become a model for similar developments nationwide and eventually require expansion as demand grows.
He pointed out that the initiative is seen as a critical step in strengthening the country’s fisheries sector, addressing food security, and promoting inclusive economic growth in rural coastal areas.
