BFS-001 | Farm Setup & First Stocking Guide

Section 1

Pond Preparation Checklist

Pond preparation is the most important step in bangus farming. A properly conditioned pond produces the natural food (lab-lab and phytoplankton) that keeps fingerlings alive during the critical first weeks. Do not rush this — allow the full timeline below before stocking.

Estimated Duration: 3 to 4 weeks before stocking day Start pond preparation at least 21 days before fingerlings arrive. Rush jobs cause early mortality. Gary must confirm fingerling delivery date before Aaron and Sean begin draining.

Step-by-Step Pond Conditioning Procedure

Drain the pond completely (Days 1-3) Open all sluice gates and drain all existing water out of the pond. Use a pump if gravity drainage is not sufficient. Remove as much water as possible from low spots using a portable water pump. Remove any dead vegetation, sludge buildup, and debris from the pond bottom by hand or using rakes. Dispose of waste outside the dike area.
Sun-dry the pond bottom (Days 4-10) Leave the pond bottom fully exposed to direct sunlight for 7 to 10 days. The soil should crack and dry to a depth of at least 5 cm. Sun-drying kills harmful bacteria, parasites, and weed seeds that would compete with lab-lab later. Do not skip this step even if it delays your schedule. Dry until the mud is hard enough to walk on without sinking.
Apply agricultural lime or dolomite (Day 10-11) Spread agricultural lime (apog) or dolomite (dolomitong apog) evenly across the dried pond bottom. Rate: 1,000 to 2,000 kg per hectare, depending on how muddy and acidic the soil is. For highly acidic soils (pH below 5.5), use the higher rate. Spread lime in the morning and mix lightly into the top 5 cm of soil using rakes or a hand tiller. Allow lime to sit for 3 to 5 days before fertilizing. Liming kills remaining pathogens and raises soil pH to the ideal range of 7.5 to 8.5 for bangus.

Cost estimate: ₱2,000 – ₱6,000 per hectare (dolomite at ₱3–4/kg)
Apply organic fertilizer (Day 14-15) Spread aged chicken manure (patong manok) or carabao dung at 1,000 to 2,000 kg per hectare across the pond bottom. This feeds the algae and diatoms that will form the lab-lab mat. Do not use fresh manure — it depletes oxygen. Aged or dried manure works best. Mix lightly with soil surface.

Cost estimate: ₱3,000 – ₱8,000 per hectare
Apply inorganic fertilizer (Day 15, same day as organic) In addition to organic fertilizer, apply inorganic fertilizer to boost algae growth quickly. Use Urea (46-0-0) at 50 kg/ha and Triple Superphosphate (TSP 0-46-0) at 25 kg/ha. Mix together and broadcast evenly over the dried pond bottom.

Cost estimate: ₱2,500 – ₱4,500 per hectare
Fill pond with water (Day 16-18) Begin filling the pond slowly with water filtered through fine-mesh nets (200-micron or similar) placed over the sluice gate inlet. This prevents wild fish, fry, and predators from entering. Fill to 30–40 cm initially — do not fill to full depth yet. Shallow water heats up faster and encourages faster lab-lab growth. Check salinity if using brackish water. Ideal salinity for bangus: 10–25 ppt. Ideal pH: 7.5–8.5.
Monitor and cultivate lab-lab (Days 18-28) Lab-lab is the green-to-brown mat of algae, diatoms, and microorganisms that grows on the pond bottom — it is the natural food for bangus fingerlings. Within 5 to 10 days of filling, you should see a thin green or brownish film developing on the pond bottom. Good lab-lab is greenish-brown, soft, and slightly slimy. If water turns bright green (phytoplankton bloom), that is also good. If it turns black or smells bad, do a 20% water exchange and re-apply fertilizer at half rate.

Add more water in stages to reach 60–80 cm depth by Day 25–28. Do not raise water level too fast or you will wash away the lab-lab mat before it attaches to the bottom.
Test water quality before stocking (Day 28) At least 3 days before stocking, test the following water parameters and record all readings in the logbook. Do not stock if any parameter is out of range.

Water Quality Targets Before Stocking

Parameter	Ideal Range	How to Check	Action if Out of Range
Water Temperature	26–32°C	Thermometer	Time stocking for cooler morning hours
pH	7.5–8.5	pH test kit or meter	Low pH: add more lime. High pH: partial water exchange
Dissolved Oxygen (DO)	Above 5 mg/L	DO meter or test kit	Run aerators for 2 hours before measuring again
Salinity	10–25 ppt (brackish water ponds)	Refractometer	Add freshwater (lower) or seawater/salt (raise)
Ammonia	Below 0.1 mg/L	Ammonia test kit	Flush with fresh water; reduce fertilizer
Turbidity (clarity)	Slight greenish tint, Secchi disk 30–40 cm	Secchi disk or white plate	Too clear: add fertilizer. Too murky: water exchange
Lab-lab cover	At least 30–50% of bottom covered	Visual inspection by walking dike edge	Wait additional 5 days; re-fertilize if needed

[MIKE APPROVES] Go / No-Go for Stocking Aaron and Sean must send Gary a WhatsApp message with photos of the pond and all water quality readings before ordering fingerlings. Gary gives final go-ahead for stocking day.

Pond Preparation Timeline Summary

Day 1–3

Drain & Clean

Drain all water. Remove sludge, debris, dead vegetation. Clear pond bottom.

Day 4–10

Sun-Drying

Leave pond bottom exposed to full sun. Mud must crack and dry hard.

Day 10–14

Liming

Apply agricultural lime or dolomite at 1,000–2,000 kg/ha. Mix into topsoil.

Day 14–15

Fertilization

Apply organic manure + Urea + TSP. Broadcast evenly across pond bottom.

Day 16–18

Initial Water Fill

Fill through filtered sluice gate to 30–40 cm depth only. Check pH and salinity.

Day 18–28

Lab-Lab Cultivation

Monitor algae mat growth. Raise water level gradually to 60–80 cm by Day 28.

Day 28–30

Final Water Quality Check

Test all parameters. Send report and photos to Gary. Await go-ahead for stocking.

Section 2

Infrastructure Setup List

Before pond preparation begins, Aaron and Sean must inspect and repair all physical structures. A damaged dike or broken sluice gate discovered on stocking day will cost far more than fixing it now. Walk the entire farm perimeter and complete this checklist first.

[MIKE APPROVES] Infrastructure Budget Release Aaron and Sean must photograph every structure, list repair needs and costs, and send to Gary before spending. Gary approves specific work items and releases funds per item.

Infrastructure Inspection and Repair Checklist

Walk the entire pond dike perimeter and photograph any cracks, erosion, low spots, or collapses. Note GPS location of each problem area.
Repair all dike breaches and low spots. Dike crown should be at least 1 m above highest expected water level. Use compacted soil fill — no loose soil.
Check dike slope on both inner and outer faces. Standard: 1:1.5 ratio (for every 1 m high, base extends 1.5 m). Re-slope if eroded.
Inspect all sluice gates (pinto). Check that wooden boards slide in and out freely. Replace rotted boards. Check that rubber or clay seal prevents leaks when closed.
Install inlet screen filter at main water entry point — double-layer mosquito net or 1-mm mesh screen stretched across the sluice gate frame. This prevents wild fish entry.
Install outlet screen at drainage gate — same mesh. This prevents fingerlings from escaping when draining.
Install bird scare lines (tagak deterrent) — stretch nylon monofilament lines 30 cm above water surface in a grid pattern across shallow areas. Herons and egrets are major predators.
Clear overgrown vegetation on dike tops and inner slopes. Grass is acceptable; trees and shrubs must be removed (roots weaken dikes).
Set up an aerator platform — a stable wooden or bamboo platform extending 1–1.5 m over the water for paddle wheel or air pump aerator installation.
Install feeding stations — bamboo platforms or floating trays anchored 1–2 m from the bank at 4 points around the pond for broadcast feeding observation.
Set up storage shed — weatherproof shed for feed bags (keep dry), equipment, and supplies. Minimum 3 x 4 m. Bamboo and GI sheet roofing acceptable for startup.
Set up watchman quarters — simple shelter for the farm guard/helper. Location: near main gate with view of pond.
Put up farm signage — "Private Fishpond — No Trespassing" signs at all access points. Include Gary's contact number and Aaron's number.
Check all access paths to the pond for vehicle entry — feed deliveries and harvest trucks must be able to reach the pond edge.
Install a simple lock and chain on the main farm gate or road access point.

Infrastructure Cost Estimates

Item	Description	Estimated Cost	Who Arranges
Dike repair (minor)	Filling cracks, compacting eroded sections — per 100 m	₱5,000 – ₱15,000	Aaron + hired labor
Dike repair (major)	Rebuilding collapsed sections, heavy equipment	₱20,000 – ₱80,000	Aaron + contractor
Sluice gate repair	New wooden boards, hardware, resealing — per gate	₱1,500 – ₱5,000	Aaron + carpenter
Inlet/outlet screens	Mesh screen material and bamboo frame — per gate	₱500 – ₱1,500	Aaron
Bird scare lines	Monofilament nylon and stakes for 1 hectare	₱1,000 – ₱3,000	Aaron + Sean
Aerator platform	Bamboo or lumber platform over water — per aerator point	₱1,500 – ₱4,000	Aaron + carpenter
Feeding stations	4 bamboo tray stations around pond perimeter	₱2,000 – ₱5,000	Aaron + Sean
Storage shed	3x4 m bamboo/GI roofing shed for feed and equipment	₱8,000 – ₱20,000	Aaron + carpenter
Watchman quarters	Simple shelter with sleeping area near gate	₱5,000 – ₱15,000	Aaron + carpenter
Signage	Tarpaulin or painted signs — 4 to 6 signs	₱1,000 – ₱3,000	Aaron
Gate lock + chain	Heavy padlock + galvanized chain	₱500 – ₱1,500	Aaron
Labor (misc setup)	Day laborers for clearing, repairs, installation	₱5,000 – ₱15,000	Aaron manages
Infrastructure Total Estimate (1 hectare, minor repairs)		₱30,000 – ₱100,000
Infrastructure Total Estimate (1 hectare, major repairs)		₱80,000 – ₱170,000

Note on contractors For major dike work, get at least 3 written quotes from local contractors in Hagonoy or Paombong. Ask the barangay captain for referrals. Do not pay more than 50% upfront — pay the balance on completion after Aaron inspects the work.

Section 3

Equipment & Supplies Procurement

Purchase all equipment before pond preparation begins. Some items (aerators, water test kits) take time to source. Aaron and Sean must get actual price quotes first, then send the list to Gary for approval before purchasing.

[MIKE APPROVES] Equipment Purchase List Aaron and Sean send Gary a photo of each quoted price tag or receipt before and after purchase. Keep all official receipts (resibo) for every purchase — these go into the farm expense logbook.

Complete Equipment & Supplies Shopping List

Item	Quantity	Purpose	Est. Unit Cost	Est. Total	Where to Buy
AERATION
Paddle wheel aerator (1 HP electric)	1–2 units per hectare	Oxygenation during grow-out and emergency	₱8,000–₱15,000	₱8,000–₱30,000	Malabon fish supply market; Lazada (brand: Aqua Pro, Amats)
Air blower / diffuser system	1 unit	Supplemental aeration via air stones	₱3,000–₱8,000	₱3,000–₱8,000	Agri-supply stores in Malolos or Calumpit
Extension cord (heavy duty, 20m)	2 pcs	Aerator power supply	₱600–₱1,200	₱1,200–₱2,400	Hardware store
WATER QUALITY TESTING
pH test kit (liquid drops)	2 kits	Daily/weekly pH monitoring	₱150–₱400	₱300–₱800	Aquarium supply shops; Shopee (search: pH test kit pond)
Refractometer (salinity)	1 unit	Measure water salinity in brackish ponds	₱600–₱1,500	₱600–₱1,500	Lazada, Shopee, or Malabon market
DO test kit (dissolved oxygen)	1 kit	Weekly oxygen level check	₱400–₱1,200	₱400–₱1,200	Shopee; aquarium supply store
Ammonia test kit	1 kit	Check water quality after heavy feeding	₱300–₱800	₱300–₱800	Shopee; aquarium supply store
Thermometer (aquatic)	2 pcs	Water temperature monitoring	₱80–₱200	₱160–₱400	Hardware store or Shopee
Secchi disk	1 pc	Water clarity / turbidity measurement	₱200–₱500	₱200–₱500	Make from white plastic plate + rope; or buy from Shopee
NETS & FISHING GEAR
Cast net (6–8 ft radius, small mesh)	1 pc	Random sampling of fish size/count	₱500–₱1,500	₱500–₱1,500	Malabon fish market; Divisoria fishing supply
Seines/harvest net (fine mesh, 30–50 m)	1 set	Harvest or emergency netting	₱3,000–₱8,000	₱3,000–₱8,000	Malabon or Navotas fish supply shops
Bamboo poles (for net support)	10–20 pcs	Supporting nets and bird scares	₱30–₱80	₱600–₱1,600	Local bamboo vendor in Bulacan
Monofilament nylon line (0.6 mm, 100m spool)	3 spools	Bird scare lines; minor repairs	₱120–₱300	₱360–₱900	Hardware or fishing supply store
FEEDING EQUIPMENT
Plastic scoop / palayok (5-liter)	4 pcs	Measuring feed portions for broadcast feeding	₱50–₱150	₱200–₱600	Hardware store or market
Feed measuring container (10-kg calibrated bucket)	2 pcs	Consistent feed amount per feeding	₱80–₱200	₱160–₱400	Hardware store
WEIGHING & SAMPLING
Spring scale / hanging scale (10 kg capacity)	1 pc	Weighing fish samples and feed portions	₱200–₱600	₱200–₱600	Hardware store or Shopee
Digital kitchen scale (2 kg capacity)	1 pc	Precise weighing of small fish samples	₱300–₱700	₱300–₱700	Shopee or SM Department Store
Sampling bucket (10-liter, with aeration hole)	2 pcs	Holding live fish samples for weighing	₱100–₱200	₱200–₱400	Hardware store
FISH HEALTH & FIRST AID
Salt (NaCl, coarse — 10 kg bag)	2 bags	Salt bath treatment for fungal infections and transport stress	₱200–₱400/bag	₱400–₱800	Market or grocery; or agri-supply store
Potassium permanganate (KMnO4)	500 g	Treatment for external parasites and bacteria	₱200–₱500	₱200–₱500	Agri-vet supply stores; Shopee
BFAR-approved fish antibiotic (if needed)	As prescribed	Bacterial infection — only use under BFAR/vet guidance	Varies	Varies	Agri-vet clinic in Malolos
Lime (agricultural, 25 kg bag)	4 bags	Pond treatment + emergency disinfection	₱120–₱200/bag	₱480–₱800	Agri-supply stores
RECORDS & OFFICE
Logbook (hard cover, 200 pages)	3 pcs	Daily feeding log, expense record, water quality log	₱50–₱120	₱150–₱360	National Bookstore, Malolos
Waterproof pen / permanent marker	6 pcs	Writing in logbooks outdoors	₱30–₱60	₱180–₱360	National Bookstore or market
Tarpaulin (8x10 ft, for shed / emergency cover)	2 pcs	Covering feed bags; emergency shelter	₱300–₱700	₱600–₱1,400	Hardware store
Rubber boots (knee high)	2 pairs	Pond work — dike walking, feeding	₱200–₱500	₱400–₱1,000	Market or agri-supply store
Flashlight (waterproof, heavy duty)	2 pcs	Night perimeter checks	₱200–₱600	₱400–₱1,200	Hardware store
Equipment & Supplies Total Estimate				₱20,000 – ₱65,000

Where to Buy in Bulacan / Metro Manila

Malabon / Navotas Fish Supply

Best source for nets, harvest gear
Wholesale pricing available
Near Navotas Fish Port — ask for "fishing supply" section

Malolos, Bulacan (City Center)

Agri-supply stores along McArthur Highway
Water test kits, fertilizer, lime, dolomite
Agri-vet clinics for fish health supplies

Shopee / Lazada (Online)

Aerators, refractometers, DO meters
Cash on delivery available
Compare 3 sellers before ordering

BFAR Region 3 (San Fernando, Pampanga)

Technical assistance and subsidized supplies
Contact BFAR Region 3 office for availability
May provide free water test kits for registered farms

Section 4

Fingerling Sourcing Guide

Fingerling quality is the single biggest factor in your survival rate and final harvest weight. Bad fingerlings from poor hatcheries result in mass die-offs in the first two weeks. Aaron and Sean must never buy fingerlings from unknown or roadside sellers without Gary's approval.

[MIKE APPROVES] Fingerling Supplier Selection Aaron and Sean must visit at least 2 hatcheries, photograph the stock, and report back to Gary with price quotes and health observations before ordering. Gary selects the supplier.

Where to Find Accredited Fingerling Suppliers

BFAR Region 3 Hatcheries

BFAR Freshwater Aquaculture Center (FAC), Muñoz, Nueva Ecija — national fingerling production center
Call BFAR Region 3 (San Fernando, Pampanga): (045) 455-0066
Request accredited bangus fingerling suppliers for Bulacan
BFAR can also provide free or subsidized fingerlings under livelihood programs — ask

Private Accredited Hatcheries (Region 3 / NCR)

Bonuan Gueset, Dagupan, Pangasinan — major bangus fingerling hub
Lucap, Alaminos, Pangasinan — known producers
San Jose, Batangas — also produces bangus fry
Ask hatchery for BFAR Accreditation Certificate before buying

Local Bulacan Suppliers

Ask neighboring fishpond owners in Hagonoy/Paombong for trusted local contacts
Visit Hagonoy public market — fish traders sometimes know fingerling suppliers
Facebook: search "bangus fingerlings Bulacan" — verify seller before dealing
Bulacan LGU Agriculture Office can provide referrals

Red Flags — Avoid These Sellers

No BFAR accreditation or certificate
Selling by the road or at markets (not from pond)
Cannot show you the brood stock pond
Price too low (below ₱0.80/piece is suspicious)
Fingerlings are already sick or lethargic at time of pickup

What Healthy Fingerlings Look Like

Active and swimming vigorously when the bag or container is moved — they should scatter, not float
Uniform silver color — no dark patches, white spots, or reddish discoloration on the body or fins
No visible sores, missing scales, or damaged fins
Eyes are clear and not cloudy or sunken
Belly is slightly rounded — not pinched or sunken (sunken belly means they were starved)
All fish are roughly the same size — avoid batches with too much size variation (large fish will eat small ones)
No floating or dead fish at the bottom of the supplier's tank
Fish respond normally to shadow or vibration — sick fish do not react

Ideal Stocking Size and Density

Parameter	Recommended Value	Notes
Ideal size at stocking	1–3 grams per fingerling (2–4 cm body length)	Bigger fingerlings have better survival rates. Size 5–10 g (nemo size) even better but costs more.
Stocking density — extensive (lab-lab dependent)	3,000–5,000 pcs per hectare	Low density, lower cost, relies on natural food. Best for beginners.
Stocking density — semi-intensive (with supplemental feeding)	5,000–10,000 pcs per hectare	Moderate density, requires regular feeding and aeration. Recommended for this farm.
Stocking density — intensive (full feeding, high aeration)	15,000–30,000 pcs per hectare	High production, high input cost, not recommended for first cycle.
Recommended for BFS-001 first cycle	5,000–7,000 pcs per hectare	Semi-intensive. Safe for beginners. Good returns without overloading pond.
Expected survival rate (first cycle)	70–85%	First-cycle survival can be lower if pond prep or fingerling quality is substandard.
Expected harvest weight (6 months)	300–500 grams per fish	Market size. Premium buyers pay more for fish above 400 g.
Price per fingerling (1–3 g)	₱0.80 – ₱1.50 each	Varies by supplier and season. Buy direct from hatchery for lowest price.

Fingerling Transport Protocol

Coordinate transport timing Arrange fingerling pickup and transport to arrive at the farm in the early morning (5:00–8:00 AM) when temperatures are coolest. Never transport during midday heat. Inform the hatchery to stop feeding fingerlings 12–24 hours before transport to reduce waste and ammonia buildup in transport bags.
Use oxygen-sealed plastic bags Fingerlings must be packed in double-layered clear polyethylene bags (bagon plastik) filled 1/3 water and 2/3 oxygen. Standard rate: 200–500 fingerlings per bag for trips under 3 hours. Bags must be sealed with rubber bands and protected from direct sun. Place bags in foam boxes or coolers during transport.
Keep transport time under 4 hours For suppliers in Pangasinan (Dagupan/Alaminos), arrange transport via rented vehicle. Longer transport requires battery-powered aerators inside the transport containers. Do not leave bags in a sealed car trunk — open ventilation is required.
Do not stack bags on top of each other Keep bags in a single layer inside the transport box. Stacking crushes fish in lower bags.
Count a sample before leaving the hatchery Ask the hatchery to count a sample bag in front of you to verify the count. For large orders (5,000+), verify at least 10% of bags by count. Record the total count.

Section 5

First Stocking Day Protocol

Stocking day is the most stressful day for fingerlings. The job of Aaron and Sean is to minimize that stress. A calm, careful stocking process directly increases survival rates. Follow every step in order.

Do not stock if any of these are true: Weather is extremely hot (above 35°C air temperature) — wait for morning cool. Pond water quality test done 3 days before shows pH below 7.0 or above 9.0. Dissolved oxygen is below 5 mg/L at 7:00 AM. It is raining heavily or a typhoon is approaching. Lab-lab coverage is below 20% of the pond bottom.

Stocking Day Step-by-Step Procedure

Prepare the pond the night before (6:00 PM – Day Before) Run aerators for 2 hours before sleeping. Do a final water quality check at sunset. Make sure all inlet and outlet screens are firmly in place. Walk the full dike perimeter one last time. Aaron confirms pond is ready and sends a WhatsApp message to Gary.
Receive fingerlings at the farm gate (5:00–7:00 AM, Stocking Day) Fingerlings must arrive at the farm as early as possible. Aaron and Sean must both be present. Immediately move transport bags into the shade. Do not leave bags in the sun even for 5 minutes. Check for dead or floating fish in the bags — if mortality is above 5% on arrival, do not stock without calling Gary first.
Acclimation — temperature matching (30–60 minutes) Float the sealed transport bags on the pond surface for 30 to 60 minutes. This slowly equalizes the water temperature inside the bags with the pond water temperature. Do not rush this. Sudden temperature shock kills fingerlings within hours. As bags float, gently splash pond water on top of bags every 10 minutes.
Gradual water mixing (15 minutes) After 30–60 minutes of floating, slowly open one bag at a time. Add a cup of pond water into the bag every 5 minutes for 15 minutes before releasing fish. This allows fingerlings to adjust to pond salinity and pH gradually, not all at once.
Release fingerlings at the bank edge — in the shade (7:00–9:00 AM) Gently tilt the open bag at the water surface and allow fingerlings to swim out on their own. Do not dump or splash them in. Release bags from multiple points around the pond edge — not all at one spot. This distributes fingerlings evenly. Do not release into deep water. Release near areas with lab-lab growth so fish have immediate access to natural food.
First feeding — 2 hours after stocking Wait 2 hours before any supplemental feeding. Fingerlings need time to settle, reduce stress, and begin eating the lab-lab naturally. After 2 hours, scatter a very small amount of starter feed (fine powder or crumble) at one end of the pond. Observe if fish are feeding at the surface. If they ignore the feed, do not increase — they are still eating lab-lab.
Monitor for 3 hours after release Aaron and Sean must stay at the pond for at least 3 hours after stocking. Watch for: fish swimming erratically (stress), fish surfacing gasping for air (low oxygen), fish gathering at the inlet (avoiding poor water quality). If any of these occur, run aerators immediately and call Gary.
Evening count and report to Gary At 5:00 PM on stocking day, count any dead or floating fish. Record in the logbook: total fingerlings stocked, number dead on arrival, number dead at 5:00 PM. Take photos of the pond. Send a WhatsApp message to Gary with the final count and photos.

First 7 Days Feeding Schedule After Stocking

Day	Feed Type	Feeding Times	Amount	Notes
Day 1	None / lab-lab only	No supplemental feed	—	Let fingerlings settle and eat natural food only. Stress recovery period.
Day 2–3	Starter crumble (0.5–1 mm particle)	2x daily (7 AM and 4 PM)	Very small — 1 handful per 1,000 fingerlings per feeding	Scatter near bank edge. Observe if eaten within 30 minutes. Adjust down if uneaten.
Day 4–5	Starter crumble or powder feed	3x daily (7 AM, 12 PM, 4 PM)	Increase gradually — 2 handfuls per 1,000 fingerlings per feeding	If fish are visibly feeding at surface, this is a good sign. Maintain this rate.
Day 6–7	Starter or fine pellet (1–2 mm)	3x daily	3 handfuls per 1,000 fingerlings per feeding	Begin transitioning from crumble to fine pellet. Any uneaten feed must be scooped out within 1 hour.

Key rule for the first 7 days: Never overfeed. Uneaten feed rots, depletes oxygen, and kills fish faster than underfeeding. If fish are not eating supplemental feed, the lab-lab is still enough. Reduce supplemental feed and re-test water quality.

What Aaron and Sean Report to Gary After Stocking Day

Total fingerlings received from supplier (with supplier name and contact)
Number dead on arrival (DOA) — before stocking
Number dead observed at 5:00 PM on stocking day
Water temperature at time of stocking (thermometer reading)
pH, salinity, and DO readings from morning of stocking day
Photo of the pond after stocking (from 2 different angles)
Photo of the feed type used for first feeding
Any abnormal observations (odd behavior, unusual water color change)
Total amount paid for fingerlings and transport (with receipts)

Section 6

Month-by-Month Grow-Out Calendar

This calendar runs from stocking day (Month 0) through harvest (Month 4–6 depending on target size). Aaron and Sean follow this as their operational calendar. Gary reviews milestone reports at the end of each month.

Target harvest size: 300–500 g per fish (market size). At proper feeding rates and water management, bangus can reach 300 g in 4 months and 400–500 g in 5–6 months. Bigger fish command higher prices from buyers.

Month 1 — Establishment (Weeks 1–4 After Stocking)

Task	Frequency	Who	Details
Supplemental feeding — starter feed	3x daily	Aaron + Sean	0.5–1 mm crumble or powder. Amount: 2–3 kg per 1,000 fish per day. Adjust based on feeding behavior.
Mortality count	Daily (morning)	Aaron	Remove and count any floating dead fish. Record in logbook. Over 1% daily mortality — contact Gary.
Water color check	Daily (morning)	Aaron or Sean	Good color: light green or brownish-green. Bad: black, grey, or crystal clear (no algae).
pH and DO measurement	Every 3 days	Aaron	pH target: 7.5–8.5. DO target: above 5 mg/L at dawn. Run aerators if DO is low.
Aerator operation	Daily	Sean	Run aerators from 10 PM to 6 AM every night. Also run during cloudy days. Check aerator condition daily.
Perimeter walk	Daily (evening)	Aaron or Sean	Check for dike erosion, predators (herons, otters), and unauthorized entry. Fix any small leaks immediately.
Feed inventory check	Weekly (Monday)	Aaron	Count remaining feed bags. Alert Gary if less than 10-day supply remains.
Fish sample weight	End of Week 2 and Week 4	Aaron	Use cast net to catch 20–30 fish. Weigh individually. Average weight target at end of Month 1: 10–20 g.
Weekly report to Gary	Every Sunday	Aaron	WhatsApp: pond photos, mortality count for week, feed consumed, any issues observed.
Monthly report to Gary	End of Month 1	Aaron	Average fish weight, total mortality estimate, total feed used, total expenses for Month 1, water quality readings.

Month 2 — Early Growth (Weeks 5–8)

Task	Frequency	Who	Details
Feed transition to grower pellets (2–3 mm)	Ongoing	Aaron	Transition from starter to grower feed by Week 5–6. Mix old and new feed for 5 days to avoid feed rejection.
Feeding rate	3x daily	Aaron + Sean	Feed at 5–8% of estimated biomass per day. Formula: estimated fish count x average weight x 0.06 = daily feed in grams.
Fertilizer top-up (if lab-lab declining)	Once in Month 2 if needed	Aaron	If water turns clear and lab-lab mat disappears, apply Urea at 20 kg/ha. Check if water green returns in 5 days.
Water exchange (partial)	If water quality degrades	Aaron + Sean	Exchange 20–30% of pond water if ammonia is rising, water turns dark brown, or pH drops below 7.0.
Fish sample weight	End of Week 6 and Week 8	Aaron	Target average weight: 50–80 g by end of Month 2.
Weekly report to Gary	Every Sunday	Aaron	Same as Month 1 plus feed bag count, supplier reorder status.

Month 3 — Active Growth (Weeks 9–12)

Task	Frequency	Who	Details
Feeding rate	2–3x daily	Aaron + Sean	Reduce to 4–6% of biomass as fish grow. Larger fish are more efficient converters. Adjust after each weight sampling.
Full water quality test	Weekly	Aaron	Test pH, DO, ammonia, and salinity. Record all results. Send to Gary in weekly report.
Dike and infrastructure inspection	Monthly	Aaron + Sean	Walk entire dike. Check aerator cables and platforms. Inspect all screens for holes.
Fish sample weight	End of Week 10 and Week 12	Aaron	Target average weight: 120–180 g by end of Month 3. Calculate estimated total biomass.
Pre-harvest buyer contact	End of Month 3	Aaron (with Gary approval)	Begin reaching out to fish traders or buyers. Share expected harvest date and volume estimate. [MIKE APPROVES pricing]

Month 4 — Approaching Market Size (Weeks 13–16)

Task	Frequency	Who	Details
Feeding rate	2x daily	Aaron + Sean	3–4% of biomass. Fish are now 200–300 g. Overfeeding raises FCR and cuts profit margin.
Fish sample weight	Every 10 days	Aaron	Target: 200–300 g by end of Month 4. If fish are above 250 g and Gary wants to sell early, discuss harvest date.
Confirm buyer and pricing	Month 4, Week 2	Aaron + Gary	Lock in buyer agreement. Get committed price per kilo. [MIKE DECIDES harvest timing and sells]
Reduce feeding — pre-harvest purging	Last 3–5 days before harvest	Aaron	Reduce feed to 50% then stop 24 hours before harvest. This purges gut content and improves fish quality and taste.

Month 5–6 — Extended Grow-Out for Premium Size

Task	Frequency	Who	Details
Feeding rate	2x daily	Aaron + Sean	2–3% of biomass. Growth slows at larger sizes — feed efficiency drops. Watch FCR closely.
Fish sample weight	Every 2 weeks	Aaron	Target: 350–500 g by Month 5–6. Premium bangus above 400 g commands ₱120–₱160/kg in some markets.
Monitor disease	Daily	Aaron	At high density and large size, disease risk increases. Watch for unusual lesions, fin rot, or erratic swimming. Contact BFAR fish tech if observed.
Harvest preparation	2 weeks before harvest date	Aaron + Gary	Confirm buyer, arrange harvest crew (5–8 laborers), arrange transport ice and containers. [MIKE APPROVES logistics]

Milestone Checkpoints Gary Reviews Remotely

Milestone	Target Date	What Aaron Reports	Gary Decision Needed
Stocking Day	Day 0	Fingerling count, stocking photos, Day 0 survival rate	Confirm go-ahead day before
Week 2 Post-Stocking	Day 14	Average weight sample, feeding behavior notes, 2-week mortality total	No — monitoring only
End of Month 1	Day 30	Full monthly report: weight, mortality, feed used, expenses	Approve Month 2 feed order and budget release
End of Month 2	Day 60	Growth rate vs. target, water quality trends, any issues	Approve Month 3 feed order and budget
End of Month 3	Day 90	Biomass estimate, buyer contact update, harvest date proposal	Approve harvest timeline and pricing strategy
Month 4 Harvest Decision	Day 105–120	Current average weight, buyer offer, logistics cost estimate	YES — Gary decides harvest date and accepts or declines buyer offer
Harvest Day	Day 120–180	Total harvest weight, price per kilo received, gross income, final expense total	Gary reviews profit/loss after harvest

Section 7

Budget Breakdown

This is the full startup budget from pond preparation to the end of the first 60 days of grow-out. All figures are estimates based on 1 hectare, semi-intensive production, 6,000 fingerlings stocked. Aaron and Sean must get actual quotes for all items before Gary releases funds. Gary releases funds per category — not as a lump sum.

[MIKE APPROVES] Fund Release Protocol Gary releases funds in tranches: (1) Infrastructure and pond prep, (2) Equipment and supplies, (3) Fingerlings, (4) First 30-day feed supply, (5) Second 30-day feed supply. Each tranche requires a report from Aaron on the previous tranche's spending with receipts.

Category 1 — Pond Preparation

Item	Low Estimate	High Estimate	Notes
Dolomite / agricultural lime (2,000 kg)	₱6,000	₱10,000	₱3–5/kg at agri-supply store
Organic fertilizer — aged chicken manure (1,000 kg)	₱3,000	₱8,000	Prices vary by season and source
Inorganic fertilizer (Urea 50 kg + TSP 25 kg)	₱2,500	₱4,000	At agri-supply stores along McArthur Hwy
Pond drainage pump rental (if no gravity drainage)	₱0	₱5,000	Only if pump is needed
Labor for pond cleaning and lime application (3–5 man-days)	₱1,500	₱5,000	Day laborers at ₱500–₱700/day
Inlet/outlet screen materials	₱1,000	₱3,000	Mesh, bamboo frame, nylon cord
Pond Prep Subtotal	₱14,000	₱35,000

Category 2 — Infrastructure Repairs

Item	Low Estimate	High Estimate	Notes
Dike repair (minor — filling, compacting)	₱5,000	₱20,000	Depends on condition found during inspection
Dike repair (major — if needed)	₱0	₱80,000	Only if major collapse found; contractor quote required
Sluice gate repair	₱2,000	₱10,000	Per gate; materials + carpenter labor
Storage shed construction	₱8,000	₱20,000	3x4 m bamboo + GI sheet roofing
Watchman quarters	₱5,000	₱15,000	Simple bamboo shelter near gate
Aerator platforms	₱3,000	₱8,000	2 platforms, bamboo/lumber + anchoring
Feeding stations (4 around pond)	₱2,000	₱5,000	Bamboo trays or bamboo platforms
Bird scare lines (monofilament grid)	₱1,000	₱3,000	Stakes and nylon for 1 hectare
Signage	₱1,000	₱3,000	Tarpaulin or painted boards at entry points
Gate lock and chain	₱500	₱1,500	Heavy padlock at main access
Miscellaneous labor	₱3,000	₱10,000	Clearing, repairs, installation work
Infrastructure Subtotal	₱30,500	₱175,500

Category 3 — Equipment and Supplies

Item	Low Estimate	High Estimate	Notes
Paddle wheel aerator (1 HP) x2	₱16,000	₱30,000	2 units for 1 hectare semi-intensive
Water quality test kits (pH, DO, ammonia)	₱1,000	₱3,000	Full test kit set
Refractometer (salinity)	₱600	₱1,500	One unit, well-calibrated
Thermometers	₱160	₱400	2 units
Cast net	₱500	₱1,500	For sampling
Seine / harvest net	₱3,000	₱8,000	30–50 m length
Weighing scales (spring + digital)	₱500	₱1,300	1 spring scale + 1 digital scale
Fish health supplies (salt, KMnO4, lime)	₱1,000	₱2,500	First aid for fish
Logbooks + pens	₱300	₱600	3 logbooks for different records
Miscellaneous (boots, flashlights, tarps, buckets)	₱2,000	₱4,500	Field supplies for Aaron and Sean
Equipment Subtotal	₱25,060	₱53,300

Category 4 — Fingerlings

Item	Low Estimate	High Estimate	Notes
Bangus fingerlings — 6,000 pcs at 1–3 g	₱4,800	₱9,000	₱0.80–₱1.50 per piece from accredited hatchery
Transport cost (rented vehicle or courier)	₱2,000	₱8,000	Depends on supplier location (Bulacan vs. Pangasinan)
Transport packaging (oxygen bags, foam boxes)	₱500	₱2,000	Usually provided by supplier — confirm before ordering
Buffer for mortality replacements (5% extra)	₱200	₱700	Optional — buy 300 extra for early mortality replacement within first week
Fingerling Subtotal	₱7,500	₱19,700

Category 5 — First 60-Day Feed Supply

Item	Low Estimate	High Estimate	Notes
Starter feed (crumble/powder, 0.5–1 mm) — 100 kg	₱4,000	₱8,000	Weeks 1–3 post-stocking. High protein (38–42% crude protein).
Grower feed (pellet, 2–3 mm) — 500 kg	₱15,000	₱25,000	Weeks 4–8 post-stocking. Commercial bangus pellet (28–32% crude protein).
Feed delivery charge (if bulk)	₱500	₱2,000	Some suppliers deliver free above 20 bags
Feed storage (additional sacks/tarps for dryness)	₱300	₱800	Keep feed dry — moisture destroys pellets and grows mold
Feed (60-day) Subtotal	₱19,800	₱35,800

Total Budget Summary

Category	Low Estimate	High Estimate
1. Pond Preparation	₱14,000	₱35,000
2. Infrastructure Repairs	₱30,500	₱175,500
3. Equipment and Supplies	₱25,060	₱53,300
4. Fingerlings	₱7,500	₱19,700
5. First 60-Day Feed Supply	₱19,800	₱35,800
Setup Phase Total (to first 60 days)	₱96,860	₱319,300
Month 3–6 Operating Costs (feed, labor, water, misc)	₱40,000	₱100,000
Estimated Full First-Cycle Cost	₱136,860	₱419,300

Important notes on the budget The wide range between low and high estimates is driven almost entirely by the infrastructure condition of the pond. If the pond has major dike failures, the high estimate applies. If the pond is in good repair, the low estimate is realistic. Aaron and Sean must complete the infrastructure inspection in the first week and send Gary a full condition report before any funds are released beyond the inspection stage. Gary's ₱500K–₱2M budget is more than sufficient for this first cycle — the difference is available as operating reserve and growth capital for future cycles.

Budget Release Schedule for Gary

Tranche	When	Covers	Amount Range
Tranche 1	Week 1 (after inspection report)	Infrastructure repairs and pond prep materials	₱30,000–₱150,000
Tranche 2	Week 2–3	Equipment and supplies purchase	₱25,000–₱55,000
Tranche 3	Week 4 (after water quality cleared)	Fingerling purchase and transport	₱8,000–₱20,000
Tranche 4	Stocking week	First 30-day feed supply	₱12,000–₱22,000
Tranche 5	End of Month 1	Second 30-day feed supply	₱12,000–₱22,000
Ongoing	Monthly after Month 2	Continued feed, labor, and operating expenses	₱15,000–₱35,000/month

Expected Revenue (First Harvest)

Scenario	Fingerlings Stocked	Survival Rate	Avg. Weight	Total Harvest	Price/kg	Gross Revenue
Conservative	6,000 pcs	70%	300 g	1,260 kg	₱110	₱138,600
Moderate	6,000 pcs	80%	380 g	1,824 kg	₱120	₱218,880
Good	6,000 pcs	85%	450 g	2,295 kg	₱130	₱298,350

Note on profitability for the first cycle The first cycle is primarily a learning cycle. Recovering 60–80% of setup costs from the first harvest is a realistic and acceptable outcome. Infrastructure and equipment costs are one-time investments that do not repeat in future cycles. From Cycle 2 onward, the main costs are fingerlings, feed, and labor — which significantly improves margins. Gary should plan for the farm to become profitable from Cycle 2 or Cycle 3.

Quick Reference

Aaron and Sean Daily Checklist

Every Morning (6:00–7:00 AM)

Check water color and clarity
Check and record water temperature
Count and remove any dead fish
Check that aerators are running
Morning feeding (record amount)
Check inlet and outlet screens

Midday (12:00 PM)

Midday feeding (if on 3x schedule)
Check water color — if very dark or black, alert Gary
Check feed storage for moisture or rats

Every Afternoon (4:00–5:00 PM)

Afternoon feeding (record amount)
Walk full dike perimeter — check for leaks, erosion, predators
Check aerator platforms and cables
Record daily observations in logbook

Every Evening (9:00–10:00 PM)

Turn on aerators for night operation
Quick perimeter check for intruders
Check gate is locked

Every Sunday (Weekly Report to Gary)

WhatsApp: 2 photos of pond
Total mortality for the week
Feed bags remaining
Any abnormal observations
Expenses for the week (with photos of receipts)

End of Every Month (Monthly Report to Gary)

Fish sample weight (20–30 fish)
Total feed consumed (bags used)
Total expenses with all receipts
Water quality readings summary
Photo of logbook pages for the month

For Gary

Decisions Gary Must Make Before Aaron and Sean Can Proceed

Infrastructure inspection review: Aaron and Sean send full condition report and cost quotes in Week 1. Gary approves which repairs to do and releases Tranche 1 funds.
Equipment list approval: Aaron and Sean send quoted prices for all equipment. Gary approves list and releases Tranche 2 funds.
Fingerling supplier selection: Aaron and Sean visit at least 2 hatcheries and report back. Gary selects supplier, confirms stocking density, and releases Tranche 3 funds.
Go / No-Go for stocking day: Aaron and Sean send pond water quality results and photos at least 3 days before planned stocking. Gary gives final go-ahead.
Harvest timing and pricing: Aaron and Sean report buyer offers and fish weight at Month 3–4. Gary decides when to harvest and what price to accept. Gary is the one who sets the minimum acceptable price per kilo.
Emergency decisions: If Aaron or Sean observe a fish kill, typhoon flooding, or theft, they call Gary immediately (any time of day in Canada). Gary authorizes emergency spending or action. Emergency contact list must be set up before stocking day.