The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has revealed plans to open a crab hatchery at a 35-hectare mangrove plantation in Barangay Agojo, San Andres, Catanduanes. 

This initiative aims to create a crab lying-in facility where the hatching of crabs will take place, following thorough preparations.

The agency has allocated P1 million for the maintenance and other operating expenses of the project.

BFAR is set to construct a multi-section building, elevated freshwater tank, reservoir, seawater pump, wastewater treatment tank, and other necessary facilities in the designated area. 

"Ang konsepto nito crab lying-in kung tawagin natin kung saan dito natin ipaha-hatch yung ating alimango, siyempre bago yan ihatch, magkakaroon po ng ibayong paghahanda," Jorge Camacho, the OIC Provincial Fishery Officer of BFAR Catanduanes, says.

The chosen location for the mangrove crab hatchery is adjacent to a fish sanctuary and mangrove areas. 

According to Camacho, this strategic positioning can contribute to increasing the production of table-sized crabs.

"Sitwasyon na magkaroon tayo ng hatchery siguro madadagdgan din ang produksyon ng ating table-sized crabs," he says.

When the operation becomes successful, the hatchery is expected to be turned over to the local government unit (LGU). 

The site can also become an ecotourism destination. 

The project is anticipated to have positive effects on the environment, benefiting both the community and local fish cage operators in the area.