The Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center/Aquaculture Department (AQD) (SEAFDEC/AQD) based in southern Iloilo is pushing for the increase of the country’s fishery production through rigorous research and development (R&D) programs. While an intergovernmental body in Southeast Asia, SEAFDEC/AQD has refocused on technology transfers to revive the country’s production of milkfish, tilapia, seaweed, shrimp, and shellfishes. In particular, Baliao mentioned the “Oplan Balik Sugpo” program of SEAFDEC/AQD with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). The program is anchored on early detection of diseases among prawn stocks that is aimed to revive a multimillion-dollar industry.

Yap, T. (2018, July 23). Increased fish production. Manila Bulletin, p. 12.