Port workers have expressed their appreciation to President Ferdinand R. Marcos for the improvements made to the Philippine Fisheries and Development Authority (PFDA) – Iloilo Fish Port Complex (IFCP).
They said the modern facilities have significantly impacted their livelihoods, safety, and community development.
Rey Jan Rosell, a part-time port worker, said the facility’s expansion has dramatically increased the volume of fish they can process and sell.
“Para sa akin ma maganda kasi dati, kaunti lang ‘yung napo-produce na mga isda kasi maliit lang ‘yung fishing port,” Roselle said in an interview with the Presidential News Desk.
“Pero dahil po sa ngayon na medyo malaki na po ang fish port, para sa akin sobrang ganda kasi marami na pong mapo-produce na isda, marami pong bibili, at marami pong mapapakain,” Rosell said.
The rehabilitated port features a cold storage facility, a large market hall, and commercial and administrative buildings, among other improvements.
Rosell also appreciated the enhanced security within the port.
“Dati hindi mahigpit tapos maraming magnanakaw dito. Pero dahil sa ngayon napakaganda na ngayon ng fishing port dahil sa pinabago ni President na para sa akin sobrang gandang desisyon ang kanyang nagawa,” Rosell said.
Meanwhile, Luis Hernandez, a laborer, shared similar sentiments, highlighting the increase in employment opportunities.
“Okay naman ‘yung ginawa sa amin dito sa fishing port dahil maraming trabaho,” Hernandez said.
The Iloilo Fish Port Complex serves as a vital hub for fisheries trade and agro-fishery businesses in Western Visayas.
According to the Department of Agriculture, the Iloilo Fish Port Complex supports over 1,400 fisheries industry players. Within its market hall are 21 licensed fish brokers with 369 helpers, 503 fish traders or viajeros assisted by 344 aides, 66 overland suppliers, seven vessel operators, and 37 retailers supported by 74 staff. | PND
