Malaga Fish Raisers Forced Early Harvest to Prevent Loss
TUGUEGARAO CITY — Malaga fish raisers in Buguey town, Cagayan had to conduct an early harvest of their stock due to the murky waters caused by continuous rains from Severe Tropical Storm Crising and the southwest monsoon. The sudden water turbidity threatened a massive fish kill, prompting urgent action from the raisers.
Local leaders noted that this early harvest aimed to minimize financial losses for those who cultivate the Malaga fish, a highly favored species in the province. The keyphrase Malaga fish raisers highlights the community facing this pressing challenge.
Impact of Weather on Malaga Fish Raisers’ Livelihood
Buguey Mayor Licerio Antiporda III explained that the heavy rains caused the pond waters to turn turbid, endangering the fish’s survival. As a result, raisers had to transfer thousands of kilos of young Malaga fish to paddle boats for immediate sale.
Normally, mature Malaga fish fetch between P350 to P500 per kilo. However, this forced harvest means the younger fish sell for only P200 to P250 per kilo, significantly reducing income for the local fish growers.
Community Response and Support Efforts
Mayor Antiporda said the local government plans to buy the harvested Malaga fish at P200 per kilo to help ease the burden on fish raisers. “If we do not harvest the Malaga, these will die,” he stressed, underlining the urgency of the situation.
Fish raisers in Buguey are working quickly to salvage what they can amid the ongoing rains caused by Severe Tropical Storm Crising and the southwest monsoon, which continue to affect the province.
Looking Ahead for Malaga Fish Raisers
While this early harvest helps prevent total loss, raisers face the challenge of recuperating from lower earnings this season. The local government’s assistance offers some relief, but long-term solutions may be needed to protect the Malaga fish industry from future weather disturbances.
For more news and updates on Malaga fish raisers, visit Filipinokami.com.
