Protect our seas, practice sustainable management

The Philippines is blessed with abundant marine resources and vast coastlines. From the turquoise seas of Batanes in the north to the gentle waters of Tawitawi in the south, a diverse array of marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves come in abundance. These habitats harbor an impressive variety of fish species, crustaceans, and mollusks.

No doubt, seafood is an integral part of Filipino culture and sustenance from the bustling markets of Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon to the tranquil fishing villages in Mindanao.

Yet, despite the country’s natural advantages, the Philippines contributes a mere two percent of the total global marine produce, according to the 2024 report of global affairs think tank ODI.

The Philippines’ meager contribution to the global marine produce is largely attributed to foreign poaching, poverty in fishing communities, and the decline in commercial fishing activities.

According to the ODI Report, foreign entities engaged in illegal fishing pose a significant challenge. Foreign illegal fishers exploit the country’s waters, depleting fish stocks and undermining local efforts at sustainable marine management. The lack of effective enforcement exacerbates this problem, allowing unauthorized fishing activities to persist.

While the sea provides livelihood for many Filipinos, it also perpetuates poverty. Lack of social security, limited access to education, and inadequate healthcare contribute to the economic struggles of fishing communities. This cycle of poverty hampers them from investing in modern fishing practices and infrastructure.

Another factor affecting the country’s marine produce is the gradual decline in commercial fishing, largely due to diminishing profits.

But all is not lost. Tuna, a prized export, may be a silver lining in the country’s current predicament.

In 2021, Philippine tuna exports exceeded $2.6 billion, making it a global leader. However, this success story is marred by challenges. Tuna exportation faced a 31.22 percent decline in the same year, outpacing the global industry average. Tuna production reached only 2.58 million metric tons.

In September last year, however, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) reported that the Philippines was among the world’s leading producers of tuna with an impressive production of over 475,000 metric tons in 2022.

With the country’s abundant marine resources, including tuna, there’s hope that the Philippine fishing industry can thrive and flourish.

However, the country has to address illegal fishing, not only by foreign poachers but even local fishers. It is also necessary to empower coastal communities to help them improve their production and lift them out of poverty. It is likewise important that we promote and practice sustainable management. Through these efforts, we can transform our seas into a thriving resource for generations to come.

Let us safeguard our oceans to ensure that these continue to sustain us now and in the future. The responsibility falls on our shoulders.