ILOILO City – A new government-backed aquaculture feed mill in Tigbauan, Iloilo is set to slash feed costs and boost fish production in Western Visayas, with authorities targeting improved profitability and sustainability for thousands of fish farmers across the region.
The medium-scale aquaculture feed mill plant, located at the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center – Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD) in Barangay Buyu-an, is scheduled for launch following the completion of its construction that began in 2023, according to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 6.
Designed to produce up to five metric tons of nutritionally balanced feeds daily, the facility is expected to provide a steady supply of affordable, high-quality feeds — addressing one of the biggest cost drivers in aquaculture.
“It’s already done, and we are scheduling the launching at SEAFDEC Tigbauan, Iloilo. Then it will operate na after the launching. Ang capacity is five (5) metric tons (MT) per day, and we are expecting for low-cost feeds compared to the commercial EN ones,” said BFAR-6 director Remia Aparri.
The plant will utilize locally sourced raw materials, reducing dependence on imported inputs while supporting regional crop producers. Officials said this approach is expected to stabilize feed prices and strengthen linkages between the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
“By utilizing materials available in our community, we aim to deliver high-quality feeds at a stable price, which is crucial for enhancing the profitability of our fish farmers,” Aparri added.
Beyond production, the facility will also function as a training and demonstration hub, offering workshops and hands-on learning sessions for fisherfolk and fish farmers to adopt modern aquaculture practices and technologies.
The plant is equipped with a hammer mill, mixer, extruder, dryer, oil spray system, cooler, and bag sealer — components designed to ensure efficient processing, consistent feed quality, and longer shelf life.
BFAR and SEAFDEC have long collaborated on initiatives to strengthen the aquaculture sector, including feasibility studies, hatchery development, and research programs aimed at improving productivity and sustainability.
Officials said the new feed mill is expected to enhance operational efficiency, raise yields, and contribute to food security, positioning Western Visayas as a more competitive hub for aquaculture production./PN
