DAVAO CITY (July 14) — Fisherfolk and seafood traders in Davao del Sur can expect improved facilities and better market access by early next year as the Department of Agriculture (DA) targets the completion of the ₱132.18-million Malalag Municipal Fish Port by February 2027.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. visited the fish port in Barangay Baybay, Malalag, on July 13 to inspect the ongoing expansion and reaffirm the government’s commitment to modernizing fisheries infrastructure.
Implemented by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), the project is being carried out in two phases. The ₱37.31-million first phase has already been completed, while construction of the ₱94.87-million second phase is underway.
Located about 64 kilometers from the Davao Fish Port Complex, the Malalag facility serves as the primary fish landing and trading center for the municipality and nearby coastal communities.
“This is part of our commitment to accelerate the development of fisheries infrastructure that can serve more people. The additional expansion will help ensure better-quality fishery products,” Laurel said.
Once completed, the upgraded fish port is expected to speed up fish unloading and trading, improve storage and handling facilities, reduce post-harvest losses, and strengthen the fisheries value chain across Davao del Sur and neighboring areas.
During his visit, Laurel also met with fisherfolk, fish traders, and local officials to discuss the project’s progress and ensure the upgraded facility addresses the needs of coastal communities.
The fish port is managed by the Municipality of Malalag under a memorandum of agreement with the PFDA signed in 2021, allowing the local government to operate the facility while supporting its long-term maintenance.
The DA said the expanded port forms part of its broader effort to modernize the country’s fisheries sector, improve food security, and create better livelihood opportunities for fishing communities under the Bagong Pilipinas program.
For Malalag’s fishing families, the project promises more than a modern port—it offers faster access to markets, reduced spoilage, and greater opportunities to increase their income from the day’s catch.
