INAUGURATION OF THE SEAFDEC–BFAR AQUACULTURE FEED MILL IN TIGBAUAN, ILOILO

Inauguration of the SEAFDEC–BFAR Aquaculture feed mill in Tigbauan, Iloilo. The Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Centre Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD), located in Barangay Buyu-an, Tigbauan, Iloilo inaugurated a P30-million aquaculture feed mill plant on April 27, 2026, marking a major advancement in sustainable aquaculture development in Western Visayas.

SEAFDEC/AQD and the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) jointly implemented the project. SEAFDEC/AQD conducted the feasibility study, co-funded the initiative, supervised construction, and will manage the operation of the feed mill to ensure science-based and efficient production systems.

Formally titled the “Establishment of a Medium-Scale Aquaculture Feedmill in Tigbauan, Iloilo,” the facility will produce up to 5 metric tons of aquaculture feed per day, supporting cost-
effective feed production for commercially important finfish species such as milkfish and tilapia.

Programme activities included the blessing of the facility, unveiling of the marker, ceremonial switching-on of equipment, and a guided tour of the plant.

DA-BFAR Director Remia Aparri delivered the welcome remarks, SEAFDEC/AQD Chief Dan Baliao delivered a message, and DA-BFAR Assistant Director for Administrative Services Zaldy Perez
delivered the closing message.

The project is expected to benefit approximately 6,240 fisherfolk annually, helping reduce production costs and improve aquaculture productivity in the region.

The facility will use locally sourced raw materials, reduce reliance on imported inputs, and support regional crop producers. Officials said this approach will stabilise feed prices and strengthen linkages between the agriculture and fisheries sectors.

The plant includes a hammer mill, mixer, extruder, dryer, oil spray system, cooler, and bag sealer, which ensure efficient processing, consistent feed quality, and longer shelf life.

Image: Pixabay