A new chapter in inland aquaculture and food security opened on January 21, 2026, as the Provincial Government, LGU-Sevilla, BFAR formally inaugurated the Municipal Multi-species Freshwater Fish Hatchery in Barangay Cabancalan, Sevilla—an initiative seen as a practical response to rising fish prices and the growing need for sustainable local food sources.
Led by Governor Aris Aumentado, the inauguration highlighted the province’s sustained push to strengthen local food systems while creating viable livelihood opportunities for inland communities. Joining the governor were Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte, BFAR Provincial Fishery Officer Candido Samijon, Sevilla Mayor Emmanuel Caberte, and representatives from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist and the Local Government Unit of Sevilla.
Designed as a multi-species freshwater facility, the hatchery will serve as a breeding and distribution center for fingerlings such as tilapia and pantat or hito (catfish). While based in Sevilla, the facility is also intended to serve nearby inland municipalities, bringing the source of fingerlings closer to communities and encouraging backyard and small-scale fishpond culture.
𝐒𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐅𝐈𝐒𝐇 𝐒𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐂𝐄𝐒. The Bohol Provincial Government, LGU-Sevilla, and BFAR inaugurated the Municipal Multi-species Freshwater Fish Hatchery in Barangay Cabancalan, Sevilla—an initiative seen as a practical response to rising fish prices and the growing need for sustainable local food sources. 𝗣𝗵𝗼𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝘆 𝗚𝗢-𝗣𝗥/𝗘𝗠
Governor Aumentado said the project reflects the Provincial Government’s long-term commitment to stabilizing fish supply and easing the burden of high market prices.
“Mao ni challenge nato karon. Di ta mu-give up ug mangita ta’g way (paagi) nga ma-minimized gyod ang pagkamahal sa isda. Ug usa na niana kining atong gihimo karon pag-address sa supply and demand,” matud sa Gobernador.
Mayor Emmanuel Caberte said the hatchery will initially provide fry and fingerlings for residents interested in freshwater fish farming, emphasizing that the facility is not exclusive to Sevilla but open to neighboring towns as well.
The project, according to Fisheries Division Head Mary Queen Atup, is a collaborative undertaking. The Provincial Government, under the leadership of Governor Aumentado, allocated P1.5 million through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist for the establishment of the hatchery, while the LGU of Sevilla contributed P500,000 and provided the land where the facility stands.
Almirah Alidon, representing OPA head Liza Quirog, said that following the governor’s directive, similar multi-species freshwater fish hatcheries are being lined up for inauguration in strategic areas in Talibon and Pilar, following the completion of facilities in Sevilla and Valencia.
BFAR Provincial Fishery Officer Candido Samijon shared that BFAR supplied an initial stock of 300 breeders—75 males and 225 females—capable of producing up to 251,000 quality fingerlings annually. This output is expected to significantly boost the livelihoods of fishpond operators and backyard growers while increasing the availability of alternative fish in the market.
With increased production, provincial officials said the initiative is expected to help bring down fish prices and provide more affordable options for consumers.
Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte welcomed the project, assuring that the Provincial Government remains committed to supporting farmers and fisherfolk by opening opportunities for alternative and sustainable sources of income.
The Sevilla hatchery forms part of the Provincial Government’s broader strategic governance roadmap, which prioritizes agriculture, sustainability, and food security. These efforts align with the province’s commitment to balanced and responsible development as the country’s first UNESCO Global Geopark—where protecting natural resources goes hand in hand with improving the quality of life of its people.
As operations begin, local leaders expressed optimism that the initiative will create ripple effects beyond Sevilla, strengthening inland aquaculture and ensuring that affordable, locally produced food reaches households across the province. (PIMO/MAPI/ALT)
