Beyond serving as a vital hub for the fishing industry, the upgraded facility aims to attract travelers, food lovers, and cultural explorers eager to experience the freshest catch, bustling seafood markets, and authentic Ilonggo flavors on a vibrant waterfront.
In his speech during the Aug. 13 inauguration of the complex in Barangay Baybay Tanza, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the development plan includes restaurants and cooking areas, an idea he credited to Iloilo officials.
The improved port will benefit around 1,500 fisherfolk and feature a modern cold storage facility powered by solar energy.
The president emphasized that cold storage will help maintain the freshness of the catch, keeping its market value high even when transported long distances.
He also underscored the sustainability feature of the solar-powered facility, which will reduce production and storage costs.
Upgrading fish ports, Marcos added, aligns with his administration’s broader goal of connecting farmers and fisherfolk directly to markets.
“Pinapalapit natin sa market ang ating mga mangingisda. Lahat ng sektor ng agrikultura ganito po ang aming ginagawa,” he said.(“We are bringing our fisherfolk closer to the market. We are doing the same for all sectors of agriculture.”)
The PFDA–IFPC rehabilitation is expected to spur economic activity in Iloilo, generate new livelihood opportunities, and draw both local and international visitors to experience the city’s fishing culture.
Officials present at the inauguration included Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas, Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., and Iloilo City District Rep. Julienne “Jam-Jam” Baronda. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
