Fish farming is the latest buzz in Philippines as the country needs regular supply of fish despite the challenges brought about by climate change. BFAR head Malcolm I. Sarmiento Jr. said climate change was making fishing trips more perilous as fishermen were forced to venture farther in the seas to catch fish.
Sarmiento opined that climate change would definitely affect fish stocks because the spawning habit of the fishes as well as their migratory patterns may change drastically. He explained that as the seas warmed up, coral bleaching became more pronounced and harmful algal blooms would increase. Changing in climate will directly affect coral reefs and the latter may lead in the increase of red tide and ciguatera poisoning incidences.
Sarmiento, fish farming provides a good alternative to open sea fishing since it ensures regular fish harvests and, therefore, a more regular source of income. Currently, the BFAR has established 40 mariculture areas in collaboration with the local governments in strategic locations nationwide. BFAR is doing all effort to promote fish farming and it will provide a qualified fisherfolk group the materials to build the sea cages and the initial fingerling inputs. The agency will also link them to a feed producer for the initial feed requirements.
