A hatchery and training center for loach or yu-yu propagation will be constructed in Mayoyao, Ifugao to aid in the development of improved breeding facilities and enhanced production technology.
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Cordillera Director Lilibeth L. Signey said the project, worth P25 million, is part of the Inclusive Enterprise Development Support Project funded under Bayanihan 2.
The building outlay will cost P21M while P4M will be intended for the hatchery paraphernalia and other training supplies.
“The project component includes rehabilitation of yu-yu hatchery, training of beneficiaries, and distribution of yu-yu fingerlings to the rice terraces,” Signey said.
Three hundred to 350 fisherfolks in Mayoyao and neighboring towns will be trained and equipped with loach breeding to achieve a projected annual production of 500,000 to 1,000,000 fingerlings.
“We are thankful for the support of Rep. Solomon R. Chungalao and Gov. Jerry U. Dalipog as well as BFAR Assistant Director Drusila Bayate. We commit to support this endeavor to make this an industry that will benefit not only Mayoyao but also Aguinaldo, Banaue, Hungduan, and other towns of Ifugao,” said Mayor Jimmy B. Padchanan, Jr.
The yu-yu, panispis, or pikaw was introduced by the Japanese in the Philippines during the World War II.
In the Cordillera, the fish species abound in rice paddies, but due to commercialization, production has depleted and commands high market value.
It is also said the species played a significant role in the nutrition of the populace because of its high protein content.
The intervention is the fruit of legwork between the Department of Agriculture, BFAR, and Mayoyao. – Rodelyn Q. Foronda
June 1, 2023
