The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is undertaking research and development ( R&D) on new technologies intended to revive the prawn and milkfish industries in Western Visayas and ultimately, the rest of the country. DOST Regional Director Rowen Gelonga said they are currently undertaking R&D with the University of the Philippines in the Visayas, and the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Council (SEAFDEC) based in Tigbauan, Iloilo province to come up with new technologies intended to revive the prawn and milkfish industries in the region. He recalled that Western Visayas used to be a major supplier of prawns and that the entire country was a major exporter, but due to certain diseases that plagued the industry, prawn production has been adversely affected.

R&D on new technologies undertaken to revive prawn, milkfish industries. (2012, March 8). Manila Bulletin, p. 14.