MANILA – The government is crafting a road map for the eel industry.
During the 1st National Eel Forum, Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Proceso Alcala said the government wants to capitalize on the country’s position as a major producer of high-value species of eels, such as the anguillids (true eels) and the monopterus (paddy eels).
“Eels, or igat as they are more known locally, have huge market potential in the global scene. This is an opportunity that entrepreneurs in the country must look into and take advantage of,” Alcala said.
Last year, the Philippines shipped out 5,142.7 metric tons of eel worth $34.87 million. Major markets are Japan, South Korea and China, where eels are perceived as delicacies and a source of stamina.
Alcala said the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is looking into promoting eel production.
BFAR director Asis Perez said the agency is crafting an Eel Commodity Road Map to ensure effective eel production. This would also require updating Fisheries Administrative Order 242-2012, which imposes a ban on the export of elvers or eel fry.
“For the last three years, we have been seriously upholding FAO 242 in order to protect eel population from dropping further. We want to ensure that these elvers reach maturity in order to spawn and produce more eels,” Perez said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/business/105756/philippines-to-step-up-eel-production-for-export-market