BALER, Aurora — A catfish hatchery and a solar-powered pumping system were inaugurated at the Aurora Freshwater Technology Center in Baler on 27 February 2026.

The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources III (DA-BFAR 3) turned over the facility to the provincial government through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg).

Provincial Agriculturist Arnold B. Novicio thanked the government agencies and stakeholders involved in the project’s implementation.

Vice Governor Patrick Alexis Angara said the project is part of ongoing collaboration between the provincial government and national agencies to support Aurora’s agriculture and fisheries sector.

Governor Isidro P. Galban assured that the provincial government will continue to back programs that benefit local communities.

The event also included the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the provincial government and BFAR 3 for the turnover of the facilities.

A catfish hatchery is a specialized facility for the artificial breeding and early-stage rearing of catfish, producing fry, fingerlings, and juveniles. Successful operation requires precise environmental control, including maintaining water temperatures between 26 and 30 degrees Celsius and ensuring high oxygen levels for optimal growth.

Recent reports indicate that the catfish industry in Aurora is developing, with a focus on local hatchery production and infrastructure improvements.