The Department of Agriculture has opened the country’s first seaweed biotechnology facilities worth P22 million at BFAR’s National Seaweed Technology Development Center in Sorsogon. Comprising an automated 1,250-liter bioreactor and modular units, the setup enables year-round production of disease-free, high-quality seaweed propagules by precisely controlling growth conditions, replacing outdated manual methods.
These improved planting materials will be distributed free nationwide, starting with major producing areas such as Zamboanga, Palawan, and BARMM, followed by other regions with farmer training to boost yields. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the facility marks a key step to regain the Philippines’ standing as the top Kappaphycus seaweed producer, noting current ranking as fourth globally. The DA plans additional sites in Palawan and Mindanao, amid PSA data showing 2025 production fell 5.5 percent to 1.38 million metric tons.
