Ulang raising can be profitable

MANILA, Philippines - He decided to go against the tide. Instead of investing on the more popular commodities, Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) Benjamin B. Gerona Jr. chose to raise giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii), locally known as ulang or uwang.

Ulang is one of the prawn species with low and seasonal supply in the market. Despite this, the MS considers farming freshwater prawns as not only a profitable venture but also as an added attraction to his diversified farm. 

Gerona runs a recreation farm where he collects entrance fees. Catching fish like tilapia and ulang is one of the attractions in his farm. Aside from ulang, about half of his farm is planted to rice while the rest is devoted to growing ornamentals.

His diversified farm is located in Brgy. Buac Gamay, Sogod, Southern Leyte near Bontoc Farmers’ Information and Services (FITS) center where he serves as MS. 

Believing in Gerona’s unconventional choice, the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development’s (PCARRD) Techno Gabay Program invested on his ulang production through the “Science and Technology-based Farm (STBF) on giant fresh water prawn” in 2008. 

Gerona did not let PCARRD down. During an STBF Field Day, he showcased his giant freshwater prawns in his 300-square meter pond. He told his audience that his net return per cycle for six months is P7,235. To sustain the continuous production of prawn, he also engages in fry culture.

He also demonstrated the importance of providing shade using a trellise of ampalaya and other viny vegetables for the growing prawns. 

Around 60 participants, consisting of farmers and representatives from the local government units, PCARRD, Visayas Consortium for Agriculture and Resources Program (ViCARP), Visayas State University, FITS-Bontoc, Southern Leyte State University, and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, attended the activity to witness his initial success with giant freshwater prawns. 

- Mheda G. Garcia, with a report from Democrito Z. Magpantay, S&T Media Service