MAGALANG, Pampanga – Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) Chairman Rene G. Romero formally proposed the development of the 4th District of Pampanga as the “Fish Capital and Seafood Tourism Destination” of the province.
This was gleaned during the signing of the renewed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Sibul Technology Business Incubator (TBI) at Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU).
The proposal, “Building the Fish Capital of Pampanga in the 4th District,” was presented to the PSAU Sibul TBI Advisory Board, composed of PamCham, MACCII, and key National Government Agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), among others.
Romero emphasized that the privately-led, government-regulated initiative aims to transform Pampanga’s 4th District into a hub for aquaculture, fisheries infrastructure, seafood processing, and tourism. He highlighted that the region’s rich brackish waters, strong fishing culture, and renowned Kapampangan culinary heritage make it an ideal location for this strategic development.
Project Highlights include
- Infrastructure Development: Establishment of fish ports, cold storage facilities, fish processing plants, ice plants, and logistics hubs in Masantol, Macabebe, and Sasmuan.
- Sustainable Aquaculture: Deployment of marine-based fish cages and brackish water inland cages to enhance local fish production.
- Economic Empowerment: Engagement of fisherfolk cooperatives, MSMEs, and community stakeholders in training and business opportunities.
- Seafood Tourism: Development of stilt-style seafood restaurants, culinary hubs, and seasonal festivals to promote Kapampangan seafood cuisine.
- Logistics and Governance: Establishment of a private consortium to manage operations, with oversight from BFAR, DA, DTI, and DOST.
Romero called for strong collaboration between the government and private sector to ensure the project’s success. He stressed that this initiative will boost Pampanga’s economy, create jobs, and position the 4th District as a national model for sustainable aquaculture and seafood tourism.
For more updates on this initiative, visit www.pamcham.org.ph.
