The House of Representatives has approved on final reading a bill filed by Rep. Francisco Benitez (Negros Occidental, 3rd District) to establish a multi-species hatchery in Barangay Mambucog, Talisay City.
“This will support the growing aquaculture and seafood industry in the Third District and ensure the steady supply of fish and blue crabs for the domestic market and for export,” Benitez said.
The hatchery will be established under the supervision of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources of the Department of Agriculture, he said.
The BFAR-DA will then transfer the management of the multi-species marine hatchery to the local government of Barangay Mambucog, Talisay City, within two years after construction, he added.
It shall also implement a training and phasing-in program for local government personnel on the management and operation of the hatchery, Benitez said.*