BATANGAS CITY: The Batangas provincial government is actively studying the operations of various fish ports across Calabarzon and the Philippines. This research is part of their preparation for the upcoming construction of a modern food terminal in the province.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative was announced by Governor Hermilando Mandanas. The construction of the food transport hub, set to begin in 2024, will be located on a coastal property in Batangas. The project aims to facilitate food transport across Southern Luzon and generate employment opportunities for locals.
Bautista revealed that Governor Mandanas visited the Lucena Fish Port Complex in Quezon province as part of a 'benchmarking activity.' This visit was concurrent with the implementation of the "Hapag Isdaan ng Mamamayan (Fish for the Masses)" project by the fish port's administration.
During the visit, Mandanas and his team met with Lucena Fish Port Complex Port Manager Custodio Balaoing, Jr., and officials from the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) - Lucena. The purpose of this ocular inspection and consultative meeting was to gather information on fish port operations, design, facilities, and income generation.
Bautista emphasized the importance of government-provided post-harvest facilities in enhancing the agriculture and fishing industries in the province and neighboring areas. He mentioned that they are conducting a pre-feasibility study and cost-benefit analysis of the project based on PFDA's recommendations. Understanding the operational and organizational procedures for a regional fish port operation is a key focus.
The visit, according to Bautista, was particularly beneficial for learning about product handling techniques to reduce wastage and ensure modern handling of catches. The Hapag Isdaan ng Mamamayan Fish Port operates under a Technical Working Group led by Mandanas, with the Provincial Agriculturist, the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO), and the Provincial Engineer's Office as members.
In November 2023, Governor Mandanas also visited the General Santos Fish Port Complex in South Cotabato, the second largest fish port in the country. Further, plans are in place to visit the Navotas Fish Port Complex, the oldest and largest fish port, for additional insights into their study.