By Kenneth Marcos 
Families across the Philippines are being reminded of the vital role of fisheries in food security as the Department of Agriculture (DA) leads the nation in celebrating the 62nd Fish Conservation Week with the theme: “Pangisdaang Masagana, Sapat na Isda sa Bawat Pamilya.”
In fishing communities from Luzon to Mindanao, life starts before sunrise. Fisherfolk head out to sea, battling waves and uncertainty, just to bring home the day’s catch. For many, this hard work means one thing: putting fish on the table for Filipino families. This week, their role takes center stage as the country marks FishCon Week — a reminder of how fisheries feed the nation and why they must be protected.
Running from September 13 to 19, the Fish Conservation Week is a yearly event that raises awareness on the importance of sustainable fishing and marine resource protection. The 2025 celebration is especially relevant as the country continues to face challenges in food supply, high fish prices, and climate-related threats to marine biodiversity.
The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) is leading the weeklong observance with activities aimed at boosting both awareness and action. Educational campaigns, coastal cleanups, fisherfolk forums, and livelihood trainings are being held across regions, involving local governments, youth groups, and fishery stakeholders.
“Pangisdaang Masagana, Sapat na Isda sa Bawat Pamilya” reflects the DA’s commitment to ensuring that every Filipino has access to affordable and nutritious fish, while supporting the welfare of small-scale fisherfolk who remain among the poorest sectors in the country.
Why It Matters
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), fish and seafood make up over 10% of the average Filipino household’s food expenses. However, rising fuel costs, illegal fishing, overfishing, and environmental degradation have made it harder for fisherfolk to earn a decent income — and for ordinary families to buy fish at affordable prices.
DA-BFAR says the government is expanding support to small fishers through initiatives like free fingerlings, modern fishing gear, cold storage access, and capacity building programs to increase productivity and income.
Meanwhile, marine conservation remains a top priority. BFAR continues to enforce fishery laws, conduct surveillance against illegal and destructive fishing, and promote responsible aquaculture practices. These efforts help protect breeding grounds and ensure that fish stocks remain healthy for future generations.
Youth and Community Involvement
This year’s FishCon Week also emphasizes the role of the youth and local communities in protecting Philippine waters. Schools are joining poster-making contests, information drives, and interactive sessions that highlight the importance of clean oceans and responsible consumption.
In some coastal barangays, fisherfolk cooperatives are showcasing how proper fish handling, value-adding, and direct selling can help improve incomes without relying on middlemen.
A Call to Action
As the nation celebrates this meaningful week, the DA urges every Filipino to recognize the value of fish not just as food, but as a shared responsibility. From consumers who choose sustainable seafood to lawmakers shaping fishery policies, and especially to the fisherfolk who work tirelessly each day — everyone has a role to play.
FishCon Week is more than just a celebration. It’s a call to ensure that the seas remain abundant, and that every family — no matter how humble — has enough fish on their table.
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