President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday led the inauguration of the upgraded Iloilo Fish Port Complex, an ₱885.1-million modernization and capacity expansion project spearheaded by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA).
As the only PFDA regional fish port in the Visayas, the Iloilo Fish Port serves as a vital hub for fisheries trade and agro-fishery businesses in Western Visayas. With commercial leasing spaces and its natural harbor location ideal for inter-island trade, the port is poised to boost regional economic activity.
Aligned with President Marcos’ vision for green-powered infrastructure, the complex now operates a 390-kilowatt-peak solar photovoltaic system, powered by 1,152 solar panel modules. These are installed across key structures—including the new market hall, refrigeration and cold storage buildings, commercial and administration buildings, and public toilets.
“This milestone reflects our shared mission to bring essential services closer to those who depend on the sea. It gives hope to many who rely on the ocean’s bounty,” said Tiu Laurel, who also chairs the PFDA Board and once led a deep-sea fishing company before joining the Cabinet in 2023.
He also commended PFDA’s 49 years of service to the fisheries sector, as the agency prepares to mark its golden anniversary next year.
PFDA Acting General Manager Atty. Glen A. Pangapalan highlighted the project as a step toward the future. He said that, “The Iloilo Fish Port Complex is more than a facility, it is a lasting promise to every Filipino that we are building a fisheries sector capable of fueling our nation’s growth and prosperity for decades ahead.
As PFDA approaches its 50th anniversary, we are not merely upgrading ports; we are shaping world-class, sustainable, and resilient hubs that honor our seas, empower our people, and secure the Philippines’ place as a strong and proud maritime nation.”
The Iloilo Fish Port Complex now supports over 1,400 fisheries industry players. Within its market hall are 21 licensed fish brokers with 369 helpers, 503 fish traders (viajeros) assisted by 344 aides, 66 overland suppliers, seven vessel operators, and 37 retailers supported by 74 staff—forming a fast-moving, integrated supply chain.
The port receives catch from the rich fishing grounds of Western Visayas, including coastal towns in Iloilo and nearby provinces like Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, and parts of Negros.
