This initiative will receive a grant of $10 million.
Department of Agriculture (DA)
The Department of Agriculture (DA) of the Philippines and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have signed a collaboration agreement to implement projects that will improve the labor conditions of Filipino fisherfolk.
The project 'Capacity Building on Aquaculture Development for Income Increase of Fisherfolk in Guimaras Province, Philippines' will receive a grant of $10 million and will be carried out over seven years.
By improving aquaculture production and strengthening the value chain, local fisherfolk will be able to increase their income. Additionally, both countries will support the construction of a hatchery system and a pilot pond for high-value species; transfer aquaculture technologies through training programs; and develop business operation structures for cooperatives.
This collaboration demonstrates "the DA's relentless pursuit of agricultural development and modernization through partnerships with local and international institutions, to achieve a profitable agricultural industry and ensure food security nationwide, under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his Bagong Pilipinas administration," the Department stated in a press release.
In 2024, DA confirmed that it will also promote, through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), pompano production as part of the government's push to expand mariculture parks and modernize the aquaculture industry.