The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said that it was aiming to develop Region 8 as the country's mariculture center with some 12,000 to 15,000 jobs expected to be created in every mariculture park built. Malcolm Sarmiento Jr., BFAR director, said there is currently 12 mariculture center in Region 8. He cited that the region is ideal for its having less problem with pollution and nearly no weather disturbances.

Padua, R. (2005, October 14). Region 8 emerging as mariculture center. Malaya Business Insight, p. B12.