President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. conducted a late-night inspection of the Navotas Fish Port Complex on Saturday, July 11, to review the ongoing upgrading of the nation’s premier fish trading hub, a project he described as crucial for boosting the local fishing industry and stabilizing the country’s food supply.
In a social media update shared after the visit, Marcos underscored the pivotal role the facility plays in the nationwide distribution of marine goods.
”Mahalaga ang Navotas Fish Port Complex bilang isa sa mga pangunahing bagsakan at sentro ng bentahan ng isda sa bansa,” the President said.
”Kaya personal nating sinuri ang patuloy na rehabilitasyon ng mga pasilidad nito upang matiyak na nakakasabay ang ating imprastraktura sa lumalaking pangangailangan ng sektor ng pangingisda,” he added.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the Chief Executive assessed the active nighttime operations at the site alongside the progress of the structural upgrades. This visit aligns with government-led efforts to modernize critical infrastructure for the fisheries sector and fortify the country’s food security systems.
The PCO noted that the extensive redevelopment aims to boost the port’s capacity while upgrading the methods used for handling, storing, and distributing seafood.
Spanning Navotas City, the complex operates as the Philippines’ primary seafood hub and ranks among the largest facilities of its kind across Southeast Asia.
Operated by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), it functions as the central point for unloading, commercial trading, processing, and shipping out fish caught nationwide.
The inspection follows a recent announcement by the PFDA and the Department of Agriculture detailing a ₱1.6-billion modernization blueprint. The expansion project will add nearly 25 hectares to the complex, transforming it into a massive, integrated commercial center for both aquatic and agricultural goods.
Marcos emphasized that the structural transformation would offer lasting advantages to everyone involved in the supply chain, from local fishermen and market traders to everyday consumers.
”Sa mas moderno at mas maayos na pantalan, magiging mas ligtas at mas episyente ang operasyon,” he said.
The President concluded that the improved infrastructure would uplift the livelihoods of fishery workers while guaranteeing that clean, high-quality seafood remains accessible to Filipino families.