By Eva Visperas
The Samahan ng Magbabangus ng Pangasinan (SaMaPa) has assured the public that there is no bangus shortage in the region, while also clarifying that the slight increase in prices reflects a balanced market, rather than an issue of oversupply or production failure.
SaMaPa President Christopher Aldo Sibayan issued this statement in response to recent media reports suggesting a shortage of bangus (milkfish) at the Magsaysay Market in Dagupan City.
“The supply of bangus remains ample, and the price increase is a result of market conditions that ensure fair compensation for our farmers,” Sibayan said.
The group stated that the industry remains healthy and strong, despite suffering losses in the first three quarters of the year due to low prices, which fell to P90–P100 per kilo—well below the production cost of P135 per kilo.
While some small-scale producers who were impacted by these losses temporarily halted production, the majority of operators continued to raise bangus in order to maintain market supply. Many of those who paused operations have since resumed production.
Sibayan said bangus remains more affordable than galunggong, which is retailing at higher prices, ranging from P280 to P300 per kilo.
According to SaMaPa, the increased price of bangus is a sign of a healthy, balanced market rather than any shortage or crisis.
SaMaPa, which represents a significant portion of Pangasinan’s bangus producers and growers, has reiterated its commitment to maintaining fair pricing and ensuring that there is no disruption in supply. Sibayan’s comments were backed by Rosendo So, president of the farmers’ group Samahan ng Industriyang Agrikultura (SINAG), who participated in the discussions with SaMaPa to confirm the stability of the industry.
Major producers like Tiera Norte headed by Alex Soriano, which brings five tons of bangus nightly to Magsaysay Market, have assured continued production.
When prices in the consignation market dropped, some bangus producers sought alternative markets for their products. Also, some buyers began going directly to the farms, bypassing the consignation system, and transporting the fish straight to retailers.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Region 1 has also been actively supporting the industry, helping small-scale producers find alternative markets and ensuring they have the necessary resources, such as fingerlings, to maintain production.
“We are grateful for the support from BFAR, especially in guiding smaller operators and helping us reach new markets,” said Sibayan.