Fish experts from the National Integrated Fisheries Technology Development Center (NIFTDC), an office under the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), wants to elevate the production of high-value fish species to new heights. Dr. Westly Rosario, NIFTDC chief, said it is high time to modernize the techniques in propagating high-value fish like the “pigek” as known in Mindanao (or “bulidao” in Ilocano), which come very expensive in the market because of its rarity and incomparable taste. Locals say the Bulidao, scientific name “Mesopristes cancellatus,” are so rare that they have to be pre-ordered. This means a fisherman’s catch for the day is already considered sold.

Riñoza, J. (2017, August 30). Fish experts push for advanced propagation of high-value wild fish. Manila Bulletin, p. 6.