Baricuatro establishes ‘Task Force Magwayen’

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro created a provincial task force Monday to closely monitor fish prices and supply across the province.

Baricuatro signed Executive Order 50, adopting the “Bantay Presyo Isda Program” and establishing the Cebu Task Force “Magwayen” to track fish prices, supply levels, and overall market conditions.

The initiative aims to provide the provincial government with real-time data on price movements and supply disruptions, enabling officials to address unwarranted cost increases and shortages while protecting consumers, legitimate fisherfolk, and traders from unfair trade practices.

The task force will also lead government responses to supply shocks caused by natural disasters, prolonged inclement weather, closed fishing seasons, fish kills, disease outbreaks and other emergencies.

According to the executive order, the monitoring program will initially cover major fish and fishery products sold in Cebu, including high-value species, major commodity fish, and other priority seafood items designated based on market demand.

The task force derives its name from Visayan mythology, referencing Magwayen, the ancient Visayan deity associated with the sea and waters.