Aklan Agri Aqua Strengthens Aquaculture Industry in the Province with Expanded Breeding and Training Center

The Aklan Provincial Aquaculture Facility, formerly known as the Aklan Provincial Freshwater Tilapia Hatchery, has evolved into a vital center for aquatic production and training in the province.

The facility was established through a resolution by Vice Governor Renaldo "Boy" Quimpo, with financial support from Senator Sonny Angara in 2016. By 2018, a Php 5 million budget was approved, with Php 4.75 million allocated to the Aklan Provincial Government for infrastructure and equipment, channeled through BFAR-VI.

Construction commenced in 2019 and was completed in July 2020, with operations beginning by September 2020. The facility initially focused on breeding Improved Brackishwater Enhanced Selective Tilapia (IBEST), with its first successful fry collection recorded in October 2020.

Since then, the center has expanded its scope, now cultivating ornamental fish such as koi, goldfish, platys, mollies, guppies, tetras, and bettas, alongside high-value species like Giant Freshwater Prawn (Ulang) and crayfish. Ongoing construction for catfish (Hito) production further strengthens its role in the local aquaculture industry.

Beyond production, the facility also serves as a learning hub, offering training programs on aquaculture and post-harvest techniques.