Manila Bulletin
Published November 29, 2017, 10:00 PM
By Philippines News Agency

Bacolod City – The town of E. B. Magalona, known as the “blue crabs capital” of Negros Occidental, is stepping up its seafood production.

Magalona Mayor Marvin Malacon said in a press conference Tuesday demand for seafood products had been increasing and steps were being made to ensure sustainability of supply.

Malacon said the municipal government had been conducting an aggressive campaign against illegal fishing, and had penalized numerous violators.

“We have provided all coastal barangays with appropriate fishing gear to ensure that their operations are in compliance with the guidelines provided by law,” he said.

“We have been implementing regulation on harvesting blue crabs and other fish products, especially in terms of sizes to catch, also to ensure supply,” the mayor added.

E.B. Magalona’s blue crab production is pegged at about five tons per day, mostly exported to United States.

To ensure sustainability, the local government is planning to establish a 200-hectare conservation area in Barangay Tomongtong for blue crab production.

Malacon said regulation measures within the conservation area, will be strictly implemented, especially during the harvest period.