June 17, 2025 – General Santos City, Philippines – A significant step toward better services for the country’s fisheries sector took place today as the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Region XII, in collaboration with the Cold Examination Facility for Agriculture (CEFA) Project, officially broke ground for the BFAR XII Satellite Office with Fish Health and Quality Control Laboratory at the PFDA-GSC Complex.

The event brought together some of the most passionate advocates of agriculture and fisheries, including Undersecretaries Carlos G. Carag and Daniel Alfonso N. Atayde, Congresswoman Shirlyn Banas-Nograles, Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao of General Santos City (represented by Executive Assistant III Joseph Alvin Veneracion), Mr. Paris Ayos from PFDA-GSFPC, and leaders from across the fisheries and aquaculture industries. Members of the media also came to witness the important occasion.

Welcoming everyone to the ceremony, BFAR National Director Elizer S. Salilig expressed his pride and appreciation. “Today is more than a groundbreaking—it’s a commitment to a better tomorrow. We’re building not just a structure, but a foundation for a more resilient, safer, and science-driven fisheries sector,” he said.

Sharing more about the project, BFAR XII Regional Director Usop D. Pendaliday detailed the Php 114.9 million facility, which will soon stand on a 1,470 sqm lot with a 648 sqm floor area. Construction is expected to be completed in one year. He looked back at the project’s beginnings during the 24th National Tuna Congress in 2024 and sincerely thanked all the institutions and stakeholders who supported the initiative, especially RDC 12, SFFAII, and the City Government of General Santos.

Assistant Secretary Daniel Atayde emphasized how strategically important the new facility will be. “This isn’t just another building. Being right next to the fish port, it stands at the gateway of our food supply chain. It’s where safety and quality begin,” he pointed out.

To Mr. Marfenio Y. Tan, a respected figure in the fishing industry, the event was the realization of a long-standing dream. “We’ve waited for this for so long. As the tuna capital of the Philippines, we need this lab, and today, we finally have it,” he shared emotionally.

Speaking on behalf of SFFAII President Kenrick Teng, Ms. Rosanna Bernadette Contreras praised the project as a sign of progress. “This isn’t just about a building. It’s about a future where support for fisheries is stronger, more reliable, and built on science. Our community deserves this,” she said.

Mr. Paris Ayos, standing in for PFDA GM Atty. Glenn Pangapalan, highlighted how this development would directly support everyday operations at the nation’s busiest fish port. “This lab will help ensure that the fish we bring in and send out meets the highest standards. It supports our fishers, traders, and exporters—making sure our seafood is world-class,” he emphasized.

Representative Shirlyn Banas-Nograles reaffirmed her strong stance on protecting the country’s marine resources and promised to keep pushing for policies that benefit the environment and fishing communities. Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao, through Executive Assistant Joseph Alvin Veneracion, sent warm congratulations to all involved, especially the dedicated players in the seafood industry.

With firm conviction, Undersecretary Carlos G. Carag, Chair of the CEFA Steering Committee, laid out the broader impact of the project. “This isn’t just about building walls—it’s about upholding food safety, preventing diseases, and protecting our nation from illegal trade. It’s a powerful message that we are serious about safeguarding our food and our people,” he said.

He added that the facility will function as a one-stop center for testing and inspections, covering everything from product quality to international trade requirements. He also confirmed the release of Php 114,125,000 for the facility’s ongoing operations and maintenance, showing the government’s trust in BFAR XII’s leadership.

Delivering the message of DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr., Undersecretary Roger V. Navarro closed the ceremony with words of encouragement. “Two years ago, our Secretary promised this. Now, we see that promise fulfilled. This building stands for excellence and hope in our fisheries sector,” he said.

With smiles and symbolic shovels in hand, the leaders took part in the ceremonial groundbreaking, marking the beginning of something truly transformative for the region.

#BFARPh#PangisdaansaBagongPilipinas#BfarRehiyonDose#BFARRegionXII