Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. recently met with the officials of the Philippine Shrimp Industry Inc. (PHILSHRIMP Inc.) to address the challenges confronting the shrimp sector.
The discussion primarily centered on the potential ramifications of recent shrimp importation placing the industry at risk due to price volatility, disease transmission, and food safety issues due to the absence of stringent regulations governing imported shrimp products, a PHILSHRIMP press release said Sunday, January 28.
Philippine Statistics Authority’s data failing to mirror the estimated volume of shrimp production is also a matter of concern, the group said.
PHILSHRIMP officials also advocated for the elevation of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to the status of a department.
The rationale behind this proposal stems from recognizing the Philippines’ status as an archipelagic nation, facing formidable challenges in managing fisheries due to resource constraints. Many countries have established dedicated Departments of Fisheries to effectively address fishery-related concerns, the PHILSHRIMP officials said.
Their position was formalized through a resolution passed during the 14th Philippine Shrimp Congress held in Bacolod City last year, which was subsequently relayed to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
The meeting, attended by GJ Sarrosa, PHILSHRIMP president, along with directors and officers representing various sectors of the shrimp industry, underscored a cohesive and unified organizational front.
PHILSHRIMP that serves as the unifying force for diverse sectors within the shrimp industry, comprising producers, hatchery operators, feed millers, and exporters, reaffirms its steadfast commitment to spearheading
initiatives aimed at advancing and safeguarding the industry’s prosperity, the press release said.
In a spirit of genuine partnership, PHILSHRIMP endeavors to collaborate closely with government entities to ensure the sustained growth and wellbeing of the shrimp industry, it added.*