Thie biennial event, themed "Unifying the bangus industry towards global competitiveness" will bring together prime movers of the bangus industry to discuss ways and means in addressing the pressing issues and identifying strategies that will enhance the global competitiveness of the industry.
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Director Malcolm Sarmiento said the bangus congress and exposition will provide the impetus for the bangus industry stakeholders to help achieve the desired goals of the government, specially the agribusiness thrust of the DA, which are to develop further the offshore and inland bodies of waters for aquaculture, reduce production cost, enhance productivity and create more jobs. This year, around 300 participants coming from the different sectors of the industry are expected to attend, he said.
Part of the major output of this event is the drafting of an action plan by all the bangus industry stakeholders, which will be incorporated in the Philippine Bangus Masterplan.
Also, various products and latest information about bangus, new technologies, equipment, and services available to the aquaculture sectors will be showcased in the exhibit. Field trip to BFAR’s National Integrated Fisheries Technology Development Center and Anjo Farms were already arranged for interested participants. Finally, as the Congress also coincides with the Dagupan’s annual "Bangus Festival", the participants will also have a chance to witness and/or participate in the merry-making events, in addition to the Welcome Dinner to be hosted by Dagupan Mayor Benjamin Lim.
President Arroyo will be the keynote speaker. Aside from the President, House Speaker Jose De Venecia and Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yap will deliver their representative messages. Also expected to attend are Cesar M. Drilon Jr. Agriculture undersecretary for fisheries, Pangasinan Governor Victor E. Agbayani and other local officials. – Eva Visperas