THE Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) on Monday said it has approved P1.6 billion worth of infrastructure projects to modernize key fishing facilities and strengthen food distribution networks.
The projects include upgrades to the Navotas Fish Port Complex ( PC) and the construction of a modern fish port in San Vicente, Palawan.
At the PC, approved works cover the rehabilitation of Market Halls 1 and 2 under Phase III of the PFDA- PC Modernization Program, and Phase II of the PFDA- PC Shipyard Development Project.
PFDA Acting General Manager Glen Pangapalan said the improvements at the PC will expand the complex by about 25 hectares. Phase II of the Shipyard Project is due for completion in December, with Phase III of the Modernization Program to follow by June next year.
PC operations directly benefit at least 30,000 people — rising to around 50,000 during peak season — with millions more in Metro Manila relying on the port for fresh fish supply, Pangapalan said.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. outlined a broader vision for the PC as a hub for agricultural and fisheries trading. He said shortening the supply chain by allowing producers to bring goods directly to Navotas — bypassing other trading centers — would cut logistics costs and improve returns for farmers and fisherfolk.
He instructed project proponents to target a January opening for the renovated market halls and proposed a dedicated agricultural trading area within the complex.
Tiu Laurel also called for upgrading Market Halls 3 to 7, improving road networks and parking, and establishing a welcome center, noting expansion potential in the complex’s northern and northeastern sections.
The San Vicente Modern Fish Port, meanwhile, is set for completion by 2028 and is expected to benefit over 22,000 people across the fisheries value chain, including municipal fisherfolk operating in the West Philippine Sea.
The facility will provide improved fish landing, storage, and marketing infrastructure, with the government aiming to cut post-harvest losses and increase the value of catch.
The projects reflect growing recognition that market infrastructure and logistics are as critical to food affordability as increasing production, the PFDA said.