By Marlon Atun
LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines — For years, fisherfolk in Bulan, Sorsogon, have faced a common challenge: abundant catches during peak seasons but limited space, insufficient ice supply, and significant post-harvest losses that affect their income greatly.
The inadequate supply of ice and lack of cold storage facilities compel many fishermen to either sell their catch at lower prices or discard unsold fish before they reach the market.
This unfortunate situation is now set to change.
During an on-site visit and dialogue with fisherfolk and stakeholders at the Bulan Fish Port, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the approval of a major expansion of the facility, transforming its current size from 1.8 hectares into a five-hectare modern fish port complex.
“From the current 1.8 hectares, this will expand to 5 hectares. We will establish a smokehouse, a fish dryer, and a fishmeal plant here in Bulan,” Tiu Laurel said in Filipino.
“This is no longer just a plan; we are going to make it happen. We will fund this initiative,” he added, emphasizing that the project aligns with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s goal of uplifting fishing communities and strengthening local food systems.
He continued, “Let’s help the President monitor the construction and completion of this project because it is for you.”
“The President is focused on your needs,” Tiu Laurel told the fisherfolk. “Just a little more time, and you will see the change—this project will strengthen your livelihoods.”
The expansion, estimated to cost P800 million, includes the construction of key post-harvest and value-added facilities, such as a smokehouse, a fish dryer, and a fishmeal plant.
An initial P150 million has already been allocated for 2026, and the remaining funds have been approved for rollout before 2028.
For the fisherfolk, the impact goes beyond just infrastructure. A larger port means faster unloading of catches, reduced congestion, and decreased spoilage—issues that have long affected Bulan’s fishing industry.
“When the port is more spacious, transactions will be quicker, and the quality of the fish will improve,” said BFAR Bicol Regional Director Ariel Pioquinto.
“This will significantly strengthen our post-harvest programs and help ensure better prices for our fisherfolk,” he said.
Complementing the port expansion is a strengthened cold chain system.
A newly completed ice plant and storage facility, with a capacity of 60 metric tons, built by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), became fully operational in July 2026.
The facility can produce ice within 24 hours and is equipped with a standby generator to ensure continuous operation, even during power outages, according to Romy Escandor, PFDA Bulan Port Manager.
Ice blocks will be sold at P150 per 50-kilogram block, providing affordable access to preservation materials for fisherfolk, Escandor said.
Recognizing seasonal demand—particularly during peak tamban fishing months—Tiu Laurel announced plans to install an additional ice plant and deploy break ice machines to augment supply immediately.
After the expansion, it is expected to provide up to 100-120 metric tons of ice production per day during peak season.
“Our goal is that 90 to 95 percent of the catch is properly iced and preserved, to minimize spoilage,” Tiu Laurel stated.
“The Philippine Fish Port Development Authority (PFDA), as a government-owned and controlled corporation under the Department of Agriculture, will manage the operations of the fish port and related projects in Bulan,” said Glenn Panggpalan, the PFDA General Manager.
For local fisherfolk like Joel Hona, chairperson of the Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council, this development addresses a long-standing issue.
“In the past, fish were being thrown away because there was a shortage of ice. When ice is scarce, prices drop,” Hona explained.
He also mentioned that congestion at the port posed safety risks. “When boats arrive simultaneously, accidents occur due to the crowded berthing area,” Hona added.
“Now, the ice plant is a significant help in ensuring that the catch won’t go to waste,” he said. “The expansion provides great relief for better unloading of the catch.”
Bulan Mayor Romeo Gordola expressed gratitude to the national government, calling the project a “long-awaited dream” for the municipality.
“This is a huge benefit for the people of Bulan. Thank you to the President and the Department of Agriculture for hearing our fishermen’s dreams,” he said.
Fish brokers and traders also view the expansion as a catalyst for local economic growth.
“When the port is more organized, and there is adequate ice, local trade will flourish,” said local fish broker Ely Valeriano.
“Thank you to Secretary Tiu Laurel for visiting us here in Bulan and bringing good news to our community and fishermen,” Valeriano added.
“Thank you, President Bongbong Marcos, for the improvements in Bulan; we are already seeing positive changes,” he concluded. (Keren Anne Bernadas contributed to this report/PIA Bicol)
