Jonathan O. Dickson and Lainie C. Tiangson
Bureau of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources
https://doi.org/10.57043/transnastphl.2003.4727
Abstract
The fisheries sector plays an important role in the economy of the country. In the coastal and marine waters as well as aquaculture, it provides substantial benefits to the Filipino nation, in terms of food and essential nutrients, substantive employment and sustenance, and valuable foreign exchange. The total fisheries production comprises three sectors, namely: the aquaculture sector, municipal sector, and commercial sector. In 2001, marine landings were about 66% or 1,946,074 MT of the total fisheries production. Fishermen (small-scale and commercial) use various types of gears, with heavy concentration in inshore/municipal waters where production is highest. Despite the stable figures of catch and exports of the fisheries, this sector faces serious challenges in the management of fisheries. Overexploitation of coastal resources still continues. This paper gives an overview of the fisheries resources and discusses the contribution of fisheries by sector, the major problems of the industry, sustainable fishing technologies, and fisheries management approaches and key recommendations. Sustaining the country’s fisheries and coastal resources requires urgent and concerted action by responsible authorities and the wider participation of stakeholders at all levels. Interventions are required for the effective implementation of a wide range of measures as well as shifts in management perspectives.