TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) – With the vision to become the ‘Malaga’ capital of the Cagayan Valley region, officials of Buguey, Cagayan, are now implementing various measures to ensure continuous production of the said fish species.
Malaga is a local term for Siganid marine fish that is also called “rabbitfish” and one of the most expensive fish species that thrive in the sea waters of Buguey.
Buguey Mayor Licerio M. Antiporda III introduced the Oplan SSIRRENA, or Siganid and Seaweed Intensification, through Research Regulation Extension Services and Nurturing Assistance for the Fisherfolk, which aims to support the fisherfolk in the area.
He described the project as a comprehensive effort to boost the malaga industry in the town.
“We initiated this project to support and enhance our efforts in strengthening the malaga industry,” said Antiporda.
The mayor also said that the local government, in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Cagayan State University (CSU), and other institutions, will establish and develop a hatchery for malaga production.
“We need to establish a hatchery to meet export requirements,” Antiporda said.
He added that having a hatchery will ensure a consistent supply of fingerlings for stocking, allowing for year-round cultivation.
Antiporda also said a local ordinance, which prohibits the export of fingerlings and bans any form of fishing traps or gear at the Buguey River’s mouth, has been in effect.
The mayor also said the local government is currently studying the feasibility of developing seaweeds as alternative feeds for malaga. This approach aims to reduce feed costs, which could, in turn, lower the price of the fish.
“While we support our fisherfolk, we also aim to protect our resources, which is why we partner with the Philippine Coast Guard for the conduct of regular patrolling and monitoring to look into the compliance of fisherfolk with our fishery laws,” he said.
Antiporda is also optimistic that with the government’s prompt response to his request for a hatchery, they can once again strive to earn the title of “Malaga Capital of the North.” (OTB/GVB/PIA Region 2)
