In Photo: BFAR Regional Director Mr. Willy Cruz, APECO Deputy Administrator Mr. Angelo Gabriel D. Mantuano, and Business Development and Marketing Division (BDMD) Manager Mr. Gene Angelo P. Ferrer during their strategic meeting held at the BFAR Regional Office in Pampanga.
(03 April 2025, Pampanga) - In a bid to expand sustainable livelihood opportunities and promote coastal development, the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) met with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to further discuss the rollout of the strategic marine and coastal initiatives—including the salt production facility, seaweed farming, and two (2) potential legislated marine hatchery.
Spearheaded by BFAR Regional Director Mr. Willy Cruz along with APECO Deputy Administrator Mr. Angelo Gabriel D. Mantuano, and Business Development and Marketing Division (BDMD) Manager Mr. Gene Angelo P. Ferrer, the meeting focused on the implementation of these key projects to maximize the region’s coastal potential and ensure community-driven development.
A standout development was the finalization of the salt production facility set to rise on a one-hectare flat land in Parcel 1 of APECO’s development zone. With an initial investment of ₱10 million, the facility will be constructed over approximately four months, depending on site conditions and topography. Ensuring proper training and systems are in place, BFAR will handle the production operations for the first two years before its management transition to APECO or designated local associations, with BFAR continuing oversight. The production shall primarily focus on bulk salt production before gradually transitioning into high-grade salt manufacturing, marking a progressive value-chain strategy.
Another promising outcome of the meeting is BFAR’s upcoming site inspection of the coastal barangays of Cozo and Dinalugan, which are being considered for the establishment of seaweed farming operations. These areas hold strong potential given the rising demand for seaweed-based products in both regional and international markets. To support this initiative, APECO is assessing the feasibility of becoming a consolidated buyer, a move that would centralize procurement, enhance quality control, and position the region for future export opportunities to neighboring Asian countries.
Finally, discussions also tackled the legislated marine hatchery project—a forward-looking initiative envisioned to span a 100-hectare lot that would potentially open employment for up to 800 individuals in the region. The hatchery aims to serve not just as a production site but also as a training ground. BFAR is committed to equipping the local community with skills, especially in producing value-added marine products such as fish rearing that blend livelihood with sustainability and creativity.
The meeting concluded with a shared optimism and mutual commitment to advancing marine-based industries in Aurora. Both parties agreed to a ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), scheduled for 16 June 2025. The event will coincide with the commissioning of BFAR’s “Dona Aurora” vessel and will serve as a prelude to the Philippine Rise Anniversary celebrations. These collaborative efforts reflect a growing commitment to inclusive development and sustainability—anchored on partnerships that empower communities and steward the region’s rich natural resources.
