President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the urgent need to expand cold chain facilities in Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN) on Friday, highlighting the installations’ vital role in preserving the quality and safety of perishable goods, such as food, vaccines, and medicines.
Speaking during the Ugnayan with the Fisherfolk held at the General Santos Fish Port Complex (GSFPC), President Marcos vowed full government support to strengthen the region’s fisheries sector.
The President recognized General Santos City’s vital role as a key player in the Philippine fisheries industry.
“Nagtayo ka na pala nung malaking cold storage dito. Pero kailangan pang dagdagan. Gagawin namin ang lahat para masuportahan ‘yung buong cold chain … para ‘yung quality nung isda ay ma-maintain. Siyempre mas maganda ang benta,” President Marcos said.
The President was accompanied by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., who announced the construction of a new seafood testing laboratory in the area to ensure quality assurance for both local and export products.
“Mayroon tayong bago, Sir, na testing facility na itatayo rito,” Laurel reported, saying it will test for histamine levels and freshness, especially in shrimps.
President Marcos said he was impressed by the progress of the port facility since his last visit.
“Nakapunta na ako rito pero hindi pa ganito kalaki noon. Ngayon ay napakaganda na,” the President said.
The Chief Executive reiterated his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the Philippine fisheries industry, citing the importance of seafood in the Filipino diet and the country’s natural maritime advantage.
“Bubuhayin natin ulit ang ating industriya ng fisheries,” he declared. “Marami tayong – 7,000 islands ang Pilipinas kaya napupunta talaga sa fisheries ang pag-asa,” the President said.
To further uplift fisherfolk communities, President Marcos announced that the government will invest in building more fish ports and agri-ports to reduce transportation costs and improve supply chain efficiency.
“Magtatayo tayo ng mga fish ports, mga agricultural ports para mabawasan ang ating transport cost,” the President said.
President Marcos emphasized the importance of ensuring access to ice, especially in minor drop-off points.
“Para doon sa maliliit na bagsakan eh mayroong pagkukuhanan ng yelo … ‘Pag lalaot ang mga bangka, may dalang yelo para laging sariwa ‘yung inyong huli,” the President said.
President Marcos assured fisherfolk of his administration’s unwavering support. “Gagawin namin lahat para suportahan kayo.” | PND
