by Ahikam Pasion
The Samahan ng Magbabangus ng Pangasinan Agricultural Cooperative (SAMAPA) said there will be enough milkfish supply in markets as Holy Week approaches, despite lower production this year compared to 2025.
SAMAPA president Aldo Sibayan said the production of bangus fry was affected by storms that hit the province last year.
However, he noted that supply is expected to remain sufficient in the coming weeks.
Sibayan added that the current warm weather is helping milkfish grow, as the fish tend to feed more and grow faster at higher temperatures.
Members of the cooperative have also implemented measures to prevent “tangok,” or fish mortality, which can occur during hot weather.
So far, no cases of tangok have been reported among cooperatives in Pangasinan.
The group said coordination among fish growers and local government units has helped maintain the steady supply of milkfish in the province during the Lenten season.