MAGALANG, Pampanga – The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) has formally proposed transforming the province’s 4th District into the “Fish Capital and Seafood Tourism Destination” of Pampanga.
The proposal, titled “Building the Fish Capital of Pampanga in the 4th District,” was presented during the renewal of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Sibul Technology Business Incubator (TBI) at Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU).
PamCham Chairman Rene G. Romero introduced the concept to the PSAU Sibul TBI Advisory Board, which includes representatives from PamCham, MACCII, and key national government agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
Strategic Development for Aquaculture and Tourism
Romero underscored that this private sector-led, government-regulated initiative aims to position Pampanga’s 4th District as a premier hub for fisheries, aquaculture, and seafood tourism. He cited the region’s brackish waters, strong fishing culture, and renowned Kapampangan cuisine as key advantages.
The project includes:
Infrastructure Development: Fish ports, cold storage, fish processing plants, ice plants, and logistics hubs in Masantol, Macabebe, and Sasmuan.
Sustainable Aquaculture: Expansion of marine-based fish cages and inland brackish water farms.
Economic Empowerment: Capacity-building for fisherfolk cooperatives, MSMEs, and local entrepreneurs.
Seafood Tourism: Development of stilt-style seafood restaurants, culinary hubs, and seasonal seafood festivals.
Logistics and Governance: A private consortium will oversee operations, with regulatory oversight from BFAR, DA, DTI, and DOST.
Romero emphasized the need for strong public-private collaboration.