Iloilo contributed in high production of catfish
Iloilo contributed in the national increase of catfish production in the entire country. Iloilo along with Bulacan, Davao City, Laguna and Camarines has a total catfish production of 44.3 percent in the second quarter of 2008.
The increase in the catfish production was attributed by the Department of Agriculture and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in the continuing intervention measures of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in helping the aquaculture sector.
The Arroyo administration through DA Secretary Arthur Yap and BFAR Director Malcolm Sarmiento employed several interventions in assisting growers in the expansion of fishpond areas, increase stocking and spawned proper management practices.
The technical assistance provided by the bureau to the growers resulted in the high production. The 44.3 percent gain is more than the production in the same quarter in 2006. The availability of catfish which resulted in more stocking and shifting of several tilapia operators to catfish production. Catfish can be raised in pond, cages or tanks.
In Iloilo, the municipality of Zarraga is known for its catfish industry. Peddlers lined in the long stretch of street selling cooked and raw catfish. Hotels and restaurants have also their own menu of catfish from broiled to a more elaborate way of cooking. The town has its Pantat festival in giving emphasis in its bountiful catfish production.