Published on The Visayan Daily Star
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN

The municipality of EB Magalona is taking another major step to efficiently manage and sustain its famous blue crab industry, by establishing a 200-hectare conservation area in its coastal barangays.

Mayor Marvin Malacon (standing) gives an update on the blue crab industry of EB Magalona, while councilors Eric Matulac and Jun Gomed listen*

This is on top of its intensified campaign against illegal fishing and regulating the catching of blue crabs, especially the “bukaka”, or berried crabs that carry masses of eggs, as well as undersized and soft-shelled crabs.

Mayor Marvin Malacon yesterday admitted that the price of blue crabs is steadily rising, due to its huge demand that has benefitted thousands of residents, especially in the coastal barangays.

During the peak season, about four to five tons of blue crabs are being harvested daily, and exported to the United States and Japan, Malacon said.

The Ugyonan Seafood Festival of EB Magalona in Negros Occidental is making a comeback on Dec. 9 to 11, after it was successfully launched last year.

Malacon said they have already achieved their objective of promoting and showcasing the blue crabs industry, started by his predecessors, and be able to get good prices for the fisherfolk.

He also noted that a 100 percent compliance in securing a business permit is needed for fishermen, who realize the great potential of the blue crab industry.

The province of Negros Occidental is considered among the biggest exporters of blue crabs, and it is the number one marine fishery commodity in the province.

Malacon said he expects an increase of domestic tourists in the second year of the Ugyonan Seafood Festival, as they will feature the different recipes for blue crabs, aside from assorted sea foods, that include shrimps, squids, oysters, and bangus, among others.

There is also a restaurant at Lunok Avenue in EB Magalona, where sea food is served during regular days.

Councilor Jovie Madayag, chairperson of the EB Magalona Sangguniang Bayan Committee on Tourism, attributed the delicious taste of blue crabs in the town, compared to those from other coastal areas, to the clean water.

Malacon said they are getting the confidence of investors, noting the growing investments in the town for almost 17 months now.*GPB