An Assessment of the Efficiency and Performance of the Distribution Chain of the Marine Capture Fisheries Products in Lucena Fish Port Complex (LFPC), Lucena City, Philippines

The study determined the efficiency and performance of the distribution chain of marine capture fisheries in Lucena Fish Port Complex, Lucena City, Philippines. A survey using a pre-tested questionnaire was conducted among 125 respondents consisting of fishermen, traders, truckers, wholesalers and retailers. Simple random sampling was used to identify the fishermen, traders and retailers while complete enumeration was done in the case of truckers and wholesalers. Descriptive, product flow, value chain and cost and return analyses were employed in the study. Based on the performance measures used in the study, including the gross margins computed, the performance of the distribution and transportation system of marine capture fisheries products in Lucena Fish Port Complex can be considered inefficient due to high transportation rates, high spoilage rate, and longer traveling hours than what is expected. The study recommended technology development for improved operations, introduction of the open bidding system to prevent information asymmetry, practice of responsible fishing, key players to assume other roles in the chain, planning ahead the use of alternative roads, ensuring proper management practices, construction of paved roads. securing fishing permits and full utilization of the cold storage facility.