Government Promotes Pangasius as a Staple Food

During the Pangasius Culture Management Seminar held here recently, DTI-Davao regional director Marizon S. Loreto, emphasized the need of an intensive marketing plan to make the general public aware that pangasius fish is already available in the local market.

By having a sound and viable marketing plan, we can reap a number of opportunities from generating investments and jobs to cornering sales in the domestic and international markets, Mr Loreto said.

Per records of DTI-Compostela Valley program office, pangasius is currently sold at P185 per kg; DTI-CV is the anchor province for pangasius in the region.

Merlyn Damaso, a food processor from ComVal, said unlike the catfish, pangasius can be part of the familys daily menu.

To date, Ms Damaso also sells pangasius burger patty and lumpia, though she is still in search for other pangasius preparations.

Ms Damaso added that the meat of this fish stays firm even when overcooked, a characteristic that makes it more attractive. Apart from satisfying ones taste buds, the leftovers of pangasius can also be processed into a new product.

DTI-CV program manager Lucky Siegfred M. Balleque said his office is matching Ms Damaso with possible institutional buyers particularly restaurants and hotels in Davao City.

Through this way, we can create a local demand for processed pangasius, he said.