Fisheries Management Area 5

📣 PALAWAN INTER-AGENCY IUUF REDUCTION TEAM AGREES ON FRAMEWORK FOR LEGAL INSTRUMENT IN 2024 YEAR-END MEETING 📣

The Palawan Inter-agency IUU Fishing Reduction Team successfully held its 2024 Year-End Meeting on December 13, 2024, at Citystate Asturias Hotel, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

Led by DA-BFAR MIMAROPA in partnership with the USAID Fish Right Program, the meeting gathered key stakeholders and enforcement agencies to discuss vital initiatives in combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF) in Palawan.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MEETING:
📌 Agreement on the Framework/Legal Instrument for the IUUF Reduction Team to strengthen collaboration and enforcement mechanisms.
📌 Presentation of the Updated Palawan Inter-agency IUU Fishing Reduction Plan
📌 Accomplishments in Addressing IUUF per Agency (January-December 2024)
📌 Composition of the IUUF Reduction Team
📌 Operational Planning for CY 2025 Anti-IUUF Efforts

The event was attended by representatives from:
✅ DA-BFAR MIMAROPA Regional Director, Provincial Fisheries Office, and ERMCSOC
✅ Provincial Government of Palawan - Provincial Agriculture Office (PAgO)
✅ Palawan Provincial Police Office (PPO)
✅ PNP-Maritime Group 2nd Special Operations Unit (SOU)
✅ Philippine Coast Guard - District Palawan, PCG MEPCOM, and MCS 3005
✅ Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)
✅ Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO)
✅ Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD)
✅ Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)

This significant agreement on the framework or legal instrument marks a major milestone in aligning efforts to institutionalize and operationalize anti-IUUF strategies in Palawan.

The meeting also finalized Operational Plans for CY 2025, ensuring a unified approach to addressing IUUF through improved governance, law enforcement, and socio-economic programs.

💙 With strengthened partnerships and shared commitment, we move forward to protect Palawan’s marine resources and ensure sustainable fisheries for future generations.

𝐅𝐌𝐀 𝟓 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬

On December 12, 2024, the Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 5 Management Board held its 2024 Year-End Meeting at the Citystate Asturias Hotel, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. The gathering was a significant milestone for the sustainable fisheries management efforts in FMA 5, addressing key resolutions and updates for the coming year.

𝐌𝐚𝐣𝐨𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐀𝐝𝐨𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐝:
1. Adoption of SAG Resolution No. 2024-02 Endorsing the delineation of the Sub-FMA of FMA 5 into Mindoro Strait, Northwest Sulu Sea, Southwest Sulu Sea, and West Philippine Sea Fishing Grounds, complete with technical descriptions and related documents.
2. Adoption of SAG Resolution No. 2024-03 Applying Target Reference Points (TRP) and Limit Reference Points (LRP) using Froese indicators for mature and immature fish.
3. Adoption of Computed Length at First Maturity (Lm) for Decapterus russelli and Decapterus macrosoma Supporting stricter implementation of laws on gears using fine mesh nets in the West Philippine Sea.
4. Approval and Adoption of the FMA 5 IUU Fishing Reduction Plan: A comprehensive plan to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing in FMA 5
5. Approval and Adoption of the FMA Scorecard as a monitoring and evaluation tool for FMA 5

𝐎𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬:
1. Discussion on the Harvest Strategy for selected Decapterus species in the West Philippine Sea.
2. Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanism for the Municipal and Provincial IUUF Reduction Plans.
3. Updates on the upcoming election of the FMA 5 Management Board.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of FMA 5 to evidence-based fisheries management and stakeholder collaboration. With new resolutions and strengthened plans, FMA 5 aims to enhance the sustainability of its fisheries resources while addressing the challenges posed by IUUF.

This activity was supported and conducted in partnership with the USAID Fish Right Program.

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅! 🇵🇭

The Philippines, through the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), will host the 17th Regional Plan of Action (RPOA) to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing Coordination Committee Meeting on November 26-27, 2024, in Makati City.

This gathering will bring together regional leaders and experts to strengthen the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing while promoting sustainable fisheries across the region.

Let us work together towards a future of responsible and sustainable fisheries.

𝙎𝙚𝙣𝙙-𝙊𝙛𝙛 𝘾𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 9𝙩𝙝 𝙍𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙨𝙘𝙖𝙙 𝘾𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙁𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙎𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙉𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙣 𝙋𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙣

On October 29, 2024, DA-BFAR MIMAROPA, in partnership with the USAID Fish Right Program, led the Send-Off Ceremony for the 9th Roundscad (Decapterus spp.) Closed Fishing Season at San Fernando Port, El Nido, Palawan. Spearheaded by BFAR MIMAROPA's OIC, Regional Director Roberto R. Abrera, MPA, RFP, the event gathered key stakeholders in fisheries management to launch the upcoming closed season, which will run from 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒, 𝐭𝐨 𝐉𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟑𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓.

The event received a warm welcome and strong support from Municipal Mayor Edna Gacot Lim of El Nido, Palawan, reflecting the local government’s dedication to protecting the province's valuable marine resources. DILG Palawan Provincial Director Virgilio L. Tagle also graced the occasion, expressing support for DA-DILG Joint Administrative Order No. 01, series of 2015, "Establishment of a Closed Season for the Management of Galunggong (Roundscad, Decapterus spp.) in Northern Palawan"—a policy that underscores the commitment of both DA and DILG to sustainable fishery practices in the region.

The ceremony was attended by members of the Technical Working Group of the Roundscad Fisheries Management in Palawan (TWG-RFMP), along with representatives from various supporting government agencies and the USAID Fish Right Program Chief of Party Prof. Nygiel B. Armada, presenting a strong united front in preserving the province’s marine resources. Attendees included the representatives from DSWD-Palawan, Philippine Statistics Authority-Palawan (PSA), Coast Guard District Palawan (CGDPAL), the 2nd SOU PNP-Maritime Group, NSAP MIMAROPA, NSAP BFAR Region VI, PFO Southern Palawan, MFARMC Palawan Provincial Fisherfolk Representative, Palawan Provincial Agriculturist, a Commercial Fisherfolk Representative from the Inter-Island Deep Sea Fishing Association (IDSFA), and other officials from the Local Government and fisherfolk associations of El Nido, Palawan.

The event also launched the DA-BFAR MCS 3005 vessel, commanded by Commander Christopher Michael Angelo Donluan of the Philippine Coast Guard, with BFAR MIMAROPA Fisheries Law Enforcement Officers onboard. This team will conduct patrols to ensure compliance with the closed season, safeguarding critical spawning grounds for roundscad and supporting the health of Palawan’s fishery ecosystem.

Through this closed fishing season, BFAR MIMAROPA, in collaboration with local agencies and fisherfolk representatives, continues its commitment to preserving roundscad stocks, supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities, and protecting Palawan's marine biodiversity for future generations.

High Five 🖐sa FMA 5: Reduction Plan Linking Priority Species with IUU Fishing Threats to be Adopted within Fisheries Management Area 5

In line with the celebration of the 61st Fish Conservation Week, with the theme “Sama-sama Tungo sa Likas Kayang Pangisdaan sa Bagong Pilipinas”, and the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo), the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) – MIMAROPA, in partnership with the USAID Fish Right Program, successfully concluded the FMA 5 IUU Fishing Reduction Planning Workshop last September 19-20, 2024, at The B Hotel, Quezon City.

This groundbreaking event marked the first-ever FMA-wide planning workshop aimed at linking priority fish species with IUU fishing (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing) Threats within Fisheries Management Area 5 using critical data and results from the IUU Fishing Index and Threat (IFIT) Assessment Tool taking into consideration inputs from both municipal and commercial fishing vessel operators.

The workshop brought together key stakeholders active across FMA 5, including law enforcement agencies such as the PNP Maritime Group and the Philippine Coast Guard as well as national government agencies such as the DILG, DENR, DSWD, and the DOST, PCSD, fisherfolk representatives, and other partner organizations with the aim of identifying strategies to ensure the health of our marine ecosystems and sustainability of fish stocks.

Activities included:

✅ Describing the IUU fishing threats and risks in FMA 5
✅ Agreements on priority IUU fishing threats to be addressed at the FMA scale
✅ Identification of anti-IUU fishing strategies linked to the harvest strategies already identified for priority fish species

By and large, the activity was guided by the FMA Management Framework by highlighting the priority stocks in FMA 5, identification of gears used, and reference points established for sustainable fisheries management.

In the end, a 3-year FMA 5 IUU Fishing Reduction Plan was drafted which will serve as a lynchpin in ensuring the long-term sustainability of fisheries resources within the area covered by Fisheries Management Area 5 as well as providing the framework to ensure livelihood development within the coastal communities reliant on the country's marine and fisheries resources.

At the conclusion of the workshop, BFAR MIMAROPA extended its deepest appreciation to all participants for their active commitment and collaboration in addressing challenges in the fisheries sector noting that agency and stakeholder participation and engagement was instrumental to the success of adopting a sustainable future for Fisheries through data-driven strategies and collective action.

🌊🎣 Exciting Update from Fisheries Management Area 5!

BFAR MIMAROPA, in collaboration with Path Foundation Philippines, Inc., recently concluded the Reassessment of the IUU Fishing and Reduction Planning Workshop for Northern Palawan municipalities (El Nido, Roxas, San Vicente, and Taytay)! 🌊🎣

From April 17 to 19, 2024, stakeholders convened at the Villa Israel Eco Park in El Nido, Palawan, to delve into the status of Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in their municipal waters. During the workshop, participants from each municipality utilized the IUU Fishing Index Assessment and Scoring Form to evaluate the prevalence, vulnerability, and response to IUU fishing. They then crafted tailored IUU Fishing Reduction Plans based on these assessments, produced IUUF threat maps, and identified gaps in current responses.

The event also celebrated the achievements from the previous assessment and reduction planning workshop held in 2022. Many of the strategies outlined in the 1-Year Detailed Plans of the municipalities were successfully implemented, resulting in significant progress in addressing specific IUU Fishing threats.

Through our collaborative efforts, we are dedicated to protecting our marine resources and fostering sustainable fisheries practices.

Stay tuned for further updates on our collective journey to safeguard our oceans and ensure a brighter future for our coastal communities! 🐟🌏

Photo credits to Path Foundation Philippines, Inc.

1st Quarter TWG Meeting & Galunggong Mascot Launching Highlights! 🎉

We are delighted to share the successful outcomes of our recently conducted 1st Quarter Technical Working Group (TWG) Meeting for Roundscad Fisheries Management in Palawan, in collaboration with the USAID Fish Right Philippines. This event took place simultaneously with the vibrant launch of the Galunggong Mascot "Gigi" on February 8, 2024, at Harolds Evotel, Quezon City, Metro Manila. 🌊🎣

The meeting was participated by esteemed members of the TWG:

RD Emmanuel H. Asis, DFT, CESE (TWG Chairperson)
Regional Director Remia A. Aparri (R6) (Co-Chairperson)
Regional Director Noemi SB. Lanzuela, DFT (NCR)
Mr. Roberto Abrera (Chief, FPSSD BFAR MIMAROPA)
Doc Mudjeekewis Santos (Scientist V, NFRDI)
Mr. Rommel Adolf I. Diciano (OIC, CEPS-BFAR Central Office)
Mam Myrna B. Candelario (NSAP MIMAROPA Project Leader)
Romeo M. Cabungcal, Ph.D., CESE (Provincial Agriculture Office-Palawan)
Francisco SB. Torres, Jr. (NFRDI)
Mr. Georgie L. Tan (Commercial Fishing Representative)

Support Group Representatives:

PLTCOL Rae Charles DR Enrile (Commander, PNP Maritime Group-2nd SOU-Palawan)
CG CDR Randy O Hengoyon (Commanding Officer, MCS 3010)
Marlo B. Demo-os (OIC, Vessel Operations Center, BFAR CO)
Mr. Melvin A. Rabang and Ms. Jacqueline Pauig (PFDA-Navotas Fish Port Complex)
Jeanette A. Jardin (NSAP MIMAROPA)
Nonie P. Enolva (NSAP NCR)
Mam Glenda M. Cadigal (PCSD)

Also present were the USAID Fish Right Team led by their Chief of Party, Prof. Nygiel Armada, and Peer Educators from the commercial fishers group of FMA 5 (Palawan) and FMA 6 (Zambales) as observers.

Meeting Highlights:

🎉 The Galunggong Mascot Launch added vibrancy, symbolizing our commitment to sustainable fisheries.
📊 Agenda items covered crucial updates on Compliance with Closed Season (Law Enforcement) and Socio-economic Impact, addressing various facets of fisheries management.
📈Presentation of the Latest NSAP Data and Analysis, contributing valuable insights for informed decision-making.
💬 Collaborative discussions on potential management strategies for Roundscad engaged participants and stakeholders.

A heartfelt thank you to all participants for your valuable contributions and commitment to the sustainability of our fisheries. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue working together for thriving Roundscad fisheries! 🌊

📸USAID Fish Right Program

FMA 5 Workshop Achievements: Strengthening Communication and Planning for Sustainable Fisheries

We are thrilled to highlight the success of the recent Fisheries Management Area 5 (FMA 5) Framework Plan Work and Financial Plan, and Communications Planning Workshop, held at Berjaya Hotel, Makati City, on January 24-25, 2024. Spearheaded by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) MIMAROPA, in collaboration with the USAID Fish Right Program, this collaborative initiative convened key stakeholders to fortify communication strategies and craft a comprehensive one-year work and financial plan for FMA 5.

Over the dynamic two-day workshop, attendees, including Provincial Fishery Officers and staff from Occidental Mindoro, Northern Palawan, Southern Palawan, Antique, and Aklan, along with representatives from NSAP, BFAR Central Office Capture Fisheries Division, and Information and Fisherfolk Coordination Unit (IFCU), engaged in insightful presentations and interactive sessions. Facilitated by the USAID Fish Right Program and the FMA 5 Secretariat, the event fostered engaging discussions and shared expertise.

The output of this collaborative effort is twofold: the FMA 5 Communications Plan and the FMA 5 Work and Financial Plan. These strategic documents are instrumental in steering FMA 5 towards sustainable fisheries management and fostering continued collaboration among stakeholders.

In the spirit of collaboration and shared commitment to sustainable fisheries management, we look forward to implementing the plans outlined during the workshop. Stay tuned for more updates on FMA 5's journey towards a thriving and resilient fisheries sector! 🌊🐟

CLOSED FISHING SEASON IN NORTHERN PALAWAN ENDS

Starting today, February 1, 2024, the DA-BFAR has lifted the closed fishing season for roundscad (galunggong) in the waters of Northern Palawan.

Commercial fishers may resume their operations within the conservation area of northeast of Palawan, following the three-month ban on catching galunggong.

FMA 5 Concludes 2023 with 4th Quarter Management Board Meeting in Palawan

Wrapping up 2023 on a high note, Fisheries Management Area 5 concluded its year with the 4th Quarter Management Board Meeting in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. Chaired by Regional Director Emmanuel H. Asis of BFAR MIMAROPA, the gathering saw enthusiastic participation from esteemed members of the FMA 5 Management Board, alongside notable resource speakers and observers representing organizations such as USAID Fish Right Program, USAID-SIBOL, Tanggol Kalikasan, and World Wide Fund for Nature- Philippines (WWF).

The meeting was a platform for crucial agendas, focusing on tailored harvest strategies for specific zones within FMA 5, particularly addressing the West Philippine Sea and Mindoro Strait. The SAG Chairman/NSAP Project Leader Mam Myrna Candelario presented these strategies, enriching the discussions.

Alfonso Dela Torre, OIC of FMRED/FMA 5 Focal Person, presented a comprehensive overview encompassing FMA 5's milestones, accomplishments, exemplary practices, and the encountered challenges during its implementation from 2019 to the present.

Resource speakers from Tanggol Kalikasan and WWF showcased their respective programs within FMA 5, aligning seamlessly with the approved management framework plan for the area.

Assistant Professor Joshua Regalado, a representative of the USAID Fish Right Program/UP Visayas, shared insightful Initial Results of the IUUF Assessment of Commercial Fishing Vessels in FMA 5, utilizing the IUU Fishing Index and Threat Assessment Tool (IFIT Tool).

The meeting concluded with RD Asis extending heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for their active engagement, underscoring their unwavering commitment and dedication to fostering sustainable fisheries management in FMA 5.

Capacity Building for FMA 5 SAG and TWG in Palawan 🐟

The recent Capacity Building event for the FMA 5 Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) and Technical Working Group (TWG), held at Dolce Vita Hotel in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan from December 5-6, 2023, in collaboration with the USAID Fish Right Program Kumusta Mangingisda, was an inspiring gathering dedicated to advancing sustainable fisheries practices in our region.

Tailored to empower participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical strategies, the training centered prominently on the critical concept of Harvest Strategy. Guided by experts like Dr. Andre Jon Uychiaoco, Atty. James Kho, Dra. Regina Bacalso, Mr. Alfonso R. Dela Torre, Mam Myrna Candelario, and Sir Elmar Villaflor delved into multifaceted elements:

📚 Key Lessons:

-Understanding Fisheries Management Goals, Ecosystem Services, and Human Well-Being
-Elements and Scope of a Harvest Strategy within FMA 5
-Performance Indicators, Reference Points, and the Importance of Harvest Control Rules
-Evaluating Harvest Control Measures with the innovative FishPath Tool
-Communicating Science to Stakeholders

Participants actively engaged in crafting practical implications and assessing strategy implementations through insightful discussions and dynamic Q&A sessions, fostering a comprehensive understanding.

As the event concluded, participants showcased their skills in effectively communicating the drafted Harvest Strategy to various stakeholders, underscoring their dedication and collective wisdom. The occasion celebrated the contributions of both speakers and participants, recognizing their valuable roles in the endeavor.

This collaborative effort epitomized a commitment to safeguarding our oceans and fisheries for future generations. The symposium's culmination expressed gratitude for shared insights, vibrant discussions, and an unwavering commitment to sustainable fisheries management in FMA 5.

Stay tuned for further updates on the strides in sustainable fisheries management!