An economic analysis of the modular pond system of milkfish production in The Philippines

Abstract In 1980, the annual yield of milkfish ponds in The Philippines was 800 kg/ha while the potential yield is estimated to be 2000 kg/ha. The modular pond system analyzed in this study can largely close the gap between actual and potential yield through more efficient use of pond capacity to increase the number of croppings up to 7 times in 1 year. Pilot-scale production using the modular pond system was done at the Leganes Research Station (LRS) SEAFDEC, Iloilo, and at three cooperating commercial farms. Scale of operation ranged from 2.7 ha to 7.9 ha. From 2 to 7 production runs were recorded with per hectare outputs ranging from 278 kg to 341 kg per run. Input costs were based on actual figures and the ex-farm milkfish price as P21.00 (4 to 6 fish/kg). The average return on investment and payback period for all sites was 68.81% and 1.25 years, respectively.