According to the Bureau of Fishery and Aquatic Resources' (BFAR) regional director, Allan L. Poquita, Bohol has a fish shortfall of 29,029,000 kilograms, or 29,000 metric tons. based on a per capita consumption of 38.5 kilograms multiplied by 1.3 million inhabitants. Bohol uses about 50,522,000 kilograms annually, or over 50,000 metric tons.
However, Bohol only received about 21,021,000 kilograms/year, or 21 MT (42%), resulting in a 29,029,000 kilos (58%) shortfall.
Aster Caberte, the provincial administrator and the task force's leader, and Engr. Ricardo Oblena, Agriculture Executive Assistant, discussed the issue last week during a Task Force Isda meeting.
In 2019, Bohol produced 58,623,92 kg of fish, including aquaculture, 70,565,06 kg. in 2020. However, it decreased to 67,927 kg in 2021,
The seaweed production also decreased from 54,204.33 kg in 2019 to 43,406.39 kg and 34,117.05 kg, respectively, in 2020 and 2021.
As a result of the public's outcry for lower fish prices, Governor Aris Aumentado stepped in and issued Executive Order No. 29, establishing the aforementioned task team.
Oblena is the Task Force Isda's chair; Argeo Melisimo is the vice-chairman; and regular members Leon Calipusan, a former mayor of Loboc; and D.A. 7 regional director Joel Elumba; Buenavista Mayor Dave Duallo (president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines-Bohol Chapter); Assistant Secretary for the Visayas Department of Agriculture Salvador Diputado; and auxiliary members.
The governor requested assistance from the fish dealers in lowering fish prices.
Additionally, he disclosed that one fish vendor had consented to work with them for the same goal.(Romeo Braceros Jr.)
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