The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) trained fish cage operators in Barangay Tiniguiban on sustainable bangus farming practices on April 22, aiming to improve productivity while reducing environmental impact.
The technical assistance activity, conducted by BFAR-MIMAROPA through its Inland Sea Ranching Station (ISRS) and National Bangus Development Program (NBDP), gathered fish cage operators, caretakers, and workers engaged in milkfish production in Sandiwa.
NBDP regional focal person and ISRS officer-in-charge chief Billie P. Subang Jr. led the training, focusing on best management practices for grow-out culture of bangus in marine cages.
Participants were oriented on the proper handling and stocking of fingerlings, feed selection, feeding strategies, and routine cage maintenance. The session also emphasized the importance of adopting environmentally sustainable aquaculture practices amid increasing pressure on coastal ecosystems.
The activity was organized following a request from the Palawan Aqua-Agri Venture Agriculture Cooperative (PAAVACO), whose members operate fish cages in the area.
BFAR highlighted feed management as a key factor in profitability, urging operators to calculate appropriate stocking density and daily feed ration to avoid overstocking and overfeeding. The agency also cautioned against ad libitum feeding due to its impact on efficiency and waste generation.
Operators were advised to regularly clean cage nets to control biofouling and maintain water flow, as well as monitor water quality and cage conditions to prevent disease and ensure stable production.
The training also stressed the need for record-keeping to help operators track inputs, outputs, and expenses and improve decision-making.
During an open forum, participants raised concerns on feed costs, fish mortality during transport, and cage stability, with BFAR providing site-specific recommendations.
BFAR-MIMAROPA said the initiative is part of its continuing efforts to strengthen community-based aquaculture by equipping fish farmers with practical, science-based knowledge while promoting sustainable practices in coastal areas.
