BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar — Two lawmakers from Eastern Samar are pushing for the construction of modern fishports in the coastal towns of Dolores and Oras, citing the urgent need to support small-scale fisherfolk and reduce post-harvest losses.
Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales has filed two bills in the House of Representatives proposing the establishment of fully equipped fishport facilities, each with an ice plant and cold storage unit. The measures are co-authored by House Minority Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan, who hails from the same province.
“These projects are long overdue,” Gonzales said. “Our fisherfolk work just as hard as our farmers but often lack the infrastructure to protect and maximize the value of their catch.”
Gonzales said the proposed ports would help preserve the quality of marine products, minimize spoilage, and open up better market opportunities for local fishing communities.
Under House Bill No. 123, the Dolores Fish Port would be constructed in Barangay Japitan, while House Bill No. 124 proposes a similar facility for Barangay Tawagan in Oras.
Both fishports are envisioned as central hubs for the unloading, storage, and distribution of marine products. The inclusion of ice-making and cold storage systems is meant to extend the shelf life of fish and other seafood, allowing fisherfolk to sell at more competitive prices.
“These aren’t just buildings—they’re tools for economic survival and growth,” Gonzales said. “With the right support, our coastal towns can become thriving centers of local industry.”
He added that the projects would not only benefit individual fishing families but also generate jobs, attract support industries, and contribute to broader food security efforts.
Once built, the fishports will be operated by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) under the Department of Agriculture. Management is expected to be turned over eventually to the respective local government units.
Libanan echoed the call for more investment in rural infrastructure, particularly in areas often overlooked in national development plans. “If we want inclusive growth, we have to start by addressing the basic needs of our most underserved communities,” he said.
If approved, the two measures could mark a major shift in how Eastern Samar supports its coastal economy—one built not just on daily catch, but on long-term resilience and value-added opportunities.
via Ricky Bautista
