In the Philippines, a new technology called i-POND is poised to revolutionize the way shrimp farmers monitor and manage their ponds, offering real-time data and insights that enhance shrimp survival and farm efficiency.

The Rise of i-POND Technology

The i-POND technology utilizes a long-range wide area network to provide real-time monitoring of critical water quality parameters essential for shrimp survival. This allows farmers to remotely monitor their pond conditions using smartphones, tablets, or laptops wherever there is an internet connection.

With the implementation of i-POND, shrimp growers can make informed decisions swiftly. This technology enhances operational efficiency by ensuring optimal conditions for shrimp growth, ultimately optimizing financial gains. Traditional methods of monitoring, such as visual observation or basic tools like thermometers, are prone to human error and inconsistency. The i-POND system addresses these challenges by offering precise, real-time data.

Successful Implementation and Demonstration

The Metals Industry Research and Development Center, under the Department of Science and Technology, developed the i-POND system. Renato Gaudencio Goco, owner of Aqua Tierra Farm, where the first i-POND prototype was installed, highlighted the benefits of the technology. “With the i-POND, we can test in real-time if there are significant changes in water quality,” Goco stated.

A technology demonstration was conducted for shrimp farm owners, operators, and academics in Oriental Mindoro, showcasing the relevance of i-POND. Goco emphasized the proactive nature of the system, stating, “We need not wait anymore for shrimps to die and float to the surface; we can already proactively respond with corrective action.”

Farmer Reactions and Industry Adoption

While some farmers, like Beatriz Masangcay from Calapan City, express hesitancy due to the significant investment required, there is a growing recognition of the need to adopt modern solutions to enhance farm efficiency and financial returns. As Goco pointed out, integrating advanced monitoring solutions like i-POND empowers farmers with the necessary tools and technologies to thrive in the aquaculture industry.

Shrimp farming plays a vital role in the economic landscape of the Philippines. Giant black tiger shrimp, locally known as “sugpo,” contributes about 60 percent to the country’s total shrimp production, while the pacific white shrimp (suati) accounts for 30 percent. Freshwater prawn, although contributing less than 1 percent, has potential for growth with new technologies becoming available.

Goals and Investments for the Future

According to the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Shrimp Industry Road Map 2021-2040, the primary goals for the Philippine shrimp industry are steady and sustainable production and a globally competitive shrimp export sector. To achieve these goals, an estimated PHP 2.5 billion (USD 42.8 million) investment is needed. This includes:

• 35 percent allocated to the National Comprehensive Shrimp Breeding Program, focusing on genetics and genomics.
• 31 percent dedicated to processing, upgrading processing plants, and establishing new cold storage facilities to address seasonality constraints.
• 17 percent directed towards farm mechanization and infrastructure investments.