BUTUAN CITY (September 1) – The local government unit (LGU) of Lingig, Surigao del Sur, has lauded the full implementation of Republic Act 10787, which mandates the establishment of a multi-species marine hatchery in the municipality—an initiative seen as a major boost to its aquaculture sector.
Municipal Agriculture Officer Ricky Tubo said in an interview Monday that the newly completed PHP40-million hatchery is expected to greatly enhance Lingig’s milkfish industry. The facility is designed to produce up to 25 million milkfish fry annually, a vital supply for the town’s more than 2,000 registered fisherfolk.
To ensure sustainable operations, a PHP12-million solar power system was also installed, capable of providing 60 percent of the hatchery’s total electricity needs. “One of the major impacts of this project is the strong support it gives to our fisherfolk engaged in milkfish production through fishponds and cages,” Tubo said, noting that fry sources will now be more accessible with the hatchery in place.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the Caraga Region (BFAR-13) formally turned over the facility on Aug. 28. For the next two years, BFAR-13 will manage the hatchery, while also providing technical training and additional support to prepare the LGU and other stakeholders for full management transfer.
BFAR-13 Director Omnia Olama underscored the facility’s broader benefits, saying it will strengthen local aquaculture production, bolster food security, and open new livelihood opportunities for coastal communities in Surigao del Sur and across the region.
