Fishery stakeholders from all over the country converge in Zamboanga City for the 6th National Sardine Industry Congress and Trade Exhibit 2023, November 16-17 at the KCC Mall Convention Center in Gov. Camins.

Organized by the Southern Philippines Fishing Association, Inc. (SOPHIL) in partnership with the Department of Agriculture- Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR IX), the 2-day event aims to gather key players in the sardine industry to tackle new trends, setbacks, and opportunities in addition to showcasing the newest goods, services, and technologies that support the sector’s expansion and growth.

The event, themed “Strengthened Sardine Industry in Ensuring Food Security,” likewise seeks to highlight the most recent developments, addressing complex risks and challenges like climate change, pertinent scientific studies, and industry-related policies.

Agri Party-list Representative Wilbert Lee keynoted the event underscoring its “importance of strengthening the partnership between the government and the private sector to develop industries that can contribute to the country’s economic development and food security.”

Mayor John Dalipe warmly welcomed all the participants to the Congress to the 2-day event in Zamboanga City “where the prosperity of the sardines industry echoes in the daily lives of the people.”

“May this Congress be a testament to our shared commitment to the sustainable development of the sardines industry for the benefit of Zamboanga City, the Philippines, and the global community,” the mayor declared.

The opening program was also graced by Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Laurel Jr. represented by Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Central Office Executive Director Isidro Velayo and Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Secretary Lorenzo Gadon. Also present were Vice Mayor Josephine Pareja, Majority Leader District 1 Congressman Mannix Dalipe represented by Jojo Dalipe, District 2 Congressman Khymer Adan Olaso, City Councilor Jihan Edding, BFAR Regional Director Al-Zath Kunting, SOPHIL President Engr. Julius Daniel, exhibitors, and several others. (Bernadeth Lazaro)