POMPANO AS A PRIORITY FISH

Dear Mr. President, I am writing to respectfully recommend that the Philippine government declare Pompano as a priority fish species for cultivation, local production, and export promotion. This initiative could significantly contribute to our national goals of food security, economic development, and sustainable aquaculture. Rationale for Prioritizing Pompano: 1. International Benchmarking: o Australia has already prioritized Pompano and has provided the necessary support for its further development. The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) has recently unveiled advancements in aquaculture related to Pompano, as reported in Cosmos Magazine ("CSIRO unveils new white fish for aquaculture industry"). o I recommend instructing the Philippine Embassy in Canberra to explore CSIRO’s approaches and methods in developing this species for potential adoption in the Philippines. 2. Economic and Nutritional Value: o Locally, Pompano farming has shown potential, as highlighted by SEAFDEC/AQD in their article, "Renewing the push for Pompano farming." o Currently, the price of Pompano is higher than Milkfish, but with better production volumes, its price could decrease, providing an alternative and affordable source of white meat fish. o In the long term, Pompano could become more affordable than pork, offering Filipinos a healthier and cost-effective protein alternative. 3. Government Support and Promotion: o Pompano is not currently being actively promoted by the government. With proper support, more farmers and fisherfolk could be encouraged to cultivate this species, boosting local production. o I recommend engaging AUSAID in collaboration with the Australian Embassy in Manila to explore access to advanced species of Pompano being developed or promoted by Australia. Samples or supplies could also be obtained through these partnerships. 4. Interagency Collaboration: o I propose that the Departments of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Agriculture (DA), Environment and Natural Resources and Science (DENR), Science & Technology (DOST) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) form a joint task force or coordinating committee to spearhead this initiative. o This effort should align with our national food security strategy, considering Australia’s focus on food security through aquaculture. 5. Potential for Brackish Water Cultivation: o Pompano reportedly thrives in brackish water, presenting an opportunity to revitalize abandoned fishponds and provide livelihood to marginalized fishermen and communities. This could significantly improve rural development and poverty alleviation. Recommendations: To support this initiative, I humbly propose the following actions: Instruct the Philippine Embassy in Canberra to gather detailed information about CSIRO’s advancements in Pompano aquaculture. Direct DFA, DA, BFAR, DENR and DOST to collaborate on this project, focusing on research, development, and technology transfer. Explore partnerships with AUSAID and the Australian Embassy in Manila to access advanced species or samples for local propagation. Promote Pompano as a key species in our national aquaculture programs, providing incentives and technical support to interested farmers and fisherfolk. This initiative represents a strategic opportunity to enhance our food security, improve livelihoods, and position the Philippines as a competitive player in the global aquaculture industry. I am confident that under your leadership, this project can become a model for sustainable development. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I am hopeful for your favorable consideration. Respectfully yours, Ramon Ike V. Seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com cc: Hon. Secretary of Foreign Affairs Hon. Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources Hon. Secretary of Agriculture Hon. Secretary of Science and Technology 01-09-2025