FB MINEX FB MINEX FB MINEX Twitter Minex ISSUU Minex Press Reader Minex YouTube Minex

Thursday, March 4, 2021

Ban on sardine fishing lifted

THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has lifted its ban on sardine fishing in Zamboanga Peninsula ending a three-month conservation measure to help protect and conserve sardine species in the southern region.

Mayor Beng Climaco gestures as she speaks during a program following the lifting of a three-month sardine ban in Zamboanga Peninsula. (Bong Serondo)

Mayor Beng Climaco led a ceremony along with BFAR officials led by Regional Director Isidro Velayo Jr. and representatives of canning and fishing companies in Zamboanga declaring an open season for the resumption of sardine fishing. 

The mayor also lauded the BFAR and the Southern Philippines Deep Sea Fishing Association Inc., and also the Industrial Group of Zamboanga for supporting the sardine conservation program that contributed to the sustained supply in this part of the country. 

Climaco cited the key role played by the sardines industry that largely contributes to Zamboanga’s economy being the so-called “sardine capital of the Philippines.” 

During the fishing ban each December, purse seiners, ring nets, bag nets and scoop nets are not allowed within the sardine conservation area in East Sulu Sea, Basilan Strait, and Sibuguey Bay. By enforcing the closed season, sardines fish stocks are able to replenish and recover, ensuring the abundance of sardines and other fishery resources in the area.

Data from the National Stock Assessment Program showed an upward trend in sardine production with the volume reaching an all-time high of 297,683.49 MT in 2020 since 2011, the year when the implementation of the closed season was started in Zamboanga. 

This is a significant indicator especially in sardine-rich Zamboanga waters, which account for an average production of 49.25% of the country’s total sardine from 2010 to 2020 based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority.

“More than ever, now is the time to take advantage of this open fishing season to take part in ensuring the country’s food supply. As we sail again to the waters of Zamboanga, we are hopeful to receive the abundance of aquatic resources reinforced by our unwavering support towards fishery conservation and management, said BFAR National Director Eduardo Gongona. (Zamboanga Post)

Like Us on Facebook: The Mindanao Examiner
Like Us on Facebook: The Zamboanga Post
Follow Us on Twitter: Mindanao Examine
Mirror Site: Mindanao Examiner Blog
Digital Archives: Mindanao Examiner Digital
Media Rates: Advertising Rates




No comments:

Post a Comment