The Department of Science and Technology-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) has introduced a smart technology solution to address the seasonal challenges faced by milkfish hatcheries in the Philippines. Known as HATCH or Heat-Assisted Temperature Control and Monitoring System for Hatchery Management of Milkfish, the technology aims to mitigate the effects of low production during colder months, when supply often becomes insufficient.
Milkfish hatcheries in the country are highly sensitive to environmental changes, particularly temperature fluctuations. During the cold season from November to February, milkfish broodstock tend to produce fewer or no eggs at all. This results in significant production gaps and financial losses, as hatchery operators continue to incur operational costs without generating any output.
To respond to this challenge, DOST-MIRDC developed the technology under the leadership of Engr. Glen Espeña through the HATCH project funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD). The system is designed to mitigate the adverse effects of cold weather on milkfish breeding and ensure a year-round supply of fry.
According to the project team, the shortage of milkfish seeds becomes more pronounced from November to February, when cold temperatures hinder the broodstock’s ability to lay eggs. With an estimated national requirement of 300 billion milkfish fry annually, a solution was needed to help hatcheries maintain a year-round productivity.
Thermal manipulation is needed in keeping hatcheries productive during the off-season to ensure a continuous seed supply. Through HATCH, milkfish growers in fishponds and mariculture areas can possibly increase their production capacity.
The technology was also featured in the DOST-PCAARRD exhibits at the recently conducted National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) 2025 at Laoag City, Ilocos Norte from November 17-21, 2025.
HATCH key features and operation
The technology is designed to establish a cost-effective and reliable heating system that maintains the optimal water temperature of 29°C in broodstock tanks. It integrates a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) with a heat pump and electric heater, along with an automated water quality control and monitoring system to create a conducive environment for breeding.
Sensors are strategically installed in broodstock tanks to continuously monitor water quality parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and salinity. Data is recorded onto a memory card and displayed in real time through an IoT gateway, which allows for remote monitoring via a web-based application. These data are also transmitted to the system’s main control unit for processing and automation.
When the water temperature drops below 29°C, the heating system automatically activates to restore it to the optimal range. If dissolved oxygen, salinity, or pH levels fall below the ideal thresholds, the recirculating aquaculture system automatically engages to restore proper conditions.
The HATCH technology offers the following features:
- Automatic maintenance of ideal water temperature (29°C);
- Automated monitoring of critical water parameters (temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen);
- Real-time data transmission to a central server for analysis and remote access;
- Manual and automated control modes via a user-friendly interface; and
- Continuous data logging for hatchery management and decision-making.
HATCH offers a modular and automated system that ensures a stable and conducive breeding environment for milkfish, regardless of seasonal temperature changes. By maintaining consistent production throughout the year, it promises to improve the country’s aquaculture sector and reduce reliance on seasonal cycles.
HATCH technology was also one of the topics during the DOST-PCAARRD technoforum on Smart Agriculture for Sustainable Development. Engr. John Ray Mericuelo, project staff, discussed the overview and investment concerns for the technology.