ATTY. Jordan Pizarras, known as the “Tigpanalipud sa mga Bol-anon” (Protector of Boholanos), has vowed to address the skyrocketing prices of fish in Bohol, citing the plight of fisherfolk and the burden on consumers.
Running as representative of the first district of Bohol, the renowned lawyer said one of his priorities is to file a Fisheries Landing Law which will provide a comprehensive solution to ensure fair pricing and sustainable fisheries management.
“Hing-abut ug PHP 750 kada kilo! Sa Dao Market, Tagbilaran, mao nay presyo adtung December 31! Grabeha?!” Pizarras exclaimed, referring to the shockingly high fish prices at the close of 2024. Pizarras identified the root cause as a cycle of exploitation where fish pass through multiple middlemen before reaching the market.
“Momahal na kaayo ang isda tungod kay katulo na gibaligya sa wala pa moabut sa mercado. Katulo na patungi. Dili na makapalit ang mga ordinaryong taw. Samut ang mga kabus,” he explained.
To break this cycle, the Fisheries Landing Law will establish designated landing sites tied to where fishermen are registered. Pizarras emphasized.
“Kung ang mananagat narehistro sa Panglao, siya makapangisda lamang sa Panglao municipal waters nga gipadayon ug gi-monitor sa LGU. Ang iyang landing site kinahanglan sa Panglao fish port, diin naa pud ang Fisherman’s Market.”
The Fisherman’s Market will allow fishers’ families, especially their wives, to sell the catch directly to consumers. This setup eliminates middlemen and ensures fresh, affordable fish for local buyers.
“Magama ta ug Fisherman’s Market para masiguro nga direkta makabaligya ang mga asawa sa mananagat. Makaapil pa gyud ang LGU sa pagmonitor,” Pizarras said.
He also highlighted the broader benefits of this law: “Ensuring municipal waters are sustainably maintained by LGUs. “Empowering fisherfolk to gain control over their livelihoods. * Providing consumers with fresh and fairly priced fish.
“Wala puy paki ang mga namuno nato. Dili priority ang mga kabus. Ang Fisheries Landing Law maghatag ug hustisya sa atong mananagat ug sigurohon nga patas ang presyo alang sa tanan,” Pizarras lamented. He said localized landing sites and direct fish markets aims to protect fisherfolk, promote sustainable fishing, and ensure affordable seafood for all Boholanos. (PR)
