The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) distributed P34.66 million worth of farming equipment to boost seaweed production in the Zamboanga Peninsula and strengthen the Philippines’ standing in the global seaweed market.
The agency turned over 29 deep-sea seaweed nursery systems, which use the raft method, to beneficiaries in Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga City, and Zamboanga del Norte.
Each system costs P1.2 million and features high-density polyethylene (HDPE) nursery structures designed for deep-sea cultivation, along with drying and packing materials.
Packages included seaweed propagules or seedlings, nursery framing, anchor supports, floating systems, and holding nets.
For his part, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. highlighted the importance of expanding seaweed production, particularly commercial cultivation of carrageenan-producing red seaweeds such as Kappaphycus.
‘We must increase seaweed production to maximize income opportunities for our coastal communities while strengthening the Philippines’ share of the global carrageenan market,’ Tiu Laurel said.
Moreover, the BFAR announced the distribution of these interventions as the government targets reclaiming its position in the international seaweed trade.
‘The country now ranks fourth globally in seaweed production. Indonesia has overtaken the Philippines in raw production, while China is another significant competitor,’ the agency said.
‘Despite the shift, the Philippines retains a major advantage in carrageenan processing, supported by a historically developed domestic manufacturing base,’ it added.
The BFAR noted that the country remains a leading supplier to global markets for the seaweed-derived thickening and stabilizing agent used in food and other products.
To achieve its target, the BFAR said it will enhance productivity, strengthen marketing links, develop value-added products, and increase farmers’ incomes.