Press Release - Senator Cynthia Villar Champions Six New Local Hatchery Bills to Strengthen Aquaculture Industry

In a continued effort to bolster the country's aquaculture sector and enhance food security, Sen. Cynthia Villar sponsored six additional local fish hatchery bills during the Senate session on September 10, 2024. These bills aim to establish multi-species marine hatcheries and aquaculture centers in various municipalities across the Philippines.

The additional hatchery bills are as follows:

1. House Bill No. 3092 (Committee Report No. 194): Establishing a Multi-Species Marine Hatchery in the Municipality of Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte.

2. House Bill No. 6338 (Committee Report No. 196): Establishing a Multi-Species Marine Hatchery in the Municipality of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur.

3. House Bill No. 7499 (Committee Report No. 198): Establishing a Multi-Species Marine Hatchery in Zamboanga City.

4. House Bill No. 6337 (Committee Report No. 195): Establishing a Multi-Species Marine Hatchery in the Municipality of Baybay, Leyte.

5. House Bill No. 7296 (Committee Report No. 199): Establishing a Coastal Aquaculture Center to support and rehabilitate the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources' Northern Mindanao Brackish Water Aquaculture Fish Farm in Lala, Lanao del Norte.

6. House Bill No. 7300 (Committee Report No. 197): Establishing a Multi-Species Marine Hatchery in the Municipality of Minalabac, Camarines Sur.

"These hatchery projects are crucial in addressing the shortage of fish seedlings, a key element for the growth and sustainability of our aquaculture sector," said Senator Villar during her speech.

Sen. Cynthia Villar emphasized the significance of these measures, not just for the aquaculture industry but also for ensuring that Filipinos have access to affordable and nutritious food. The bills are seen as a critical step toward alleviating poverty in rural areas and promoting economic development.

"With these measures, we are not just passing legislation; we are taking decisive steps to uplift rural communities and combat poverty," Sen. Cynthia Villar stressed.

The six hatchery bills are expected to contribute to the nation's overall food security, particularly by increasing the supply of fish products and supporting local fisherfolk.

Senator Cynthia