By Kenneth Marcos 
At dawn along the coastline, small fishing boats return with modest catches as families wait onshore. For many coastal communities, the sea is more than a workplace—it is their lifeline. This is why rules on who can fish, where, and how remain a sensitive issue that stirs strong public debate.
The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has issued a clarification on the regulated allowance of commercial fishing operations within certain parts of municipal waters. The response follows public concerns raised by Ocean advocates on the impact of commercial fishing on small fisherfolk and marine ecosystems.
BFAR said its position, explained by National Director Elizer S. Salilig, is firmly based on science, existing laws, and established fisheries management principles. The agency stressed that decisions on fishing access are not made lightly and are guided by safeguards meant to protect both marine resources and coastal communities.
Under Republic Act 10654, which amended the Philippine Fisheries Code, local government units may allow small and medium commercial fishing vessels to operate within 10.1 to 15 kilometers from the shoreline. These areas fall just outside the core municipal waters reserved primarily for small fisherfolk.
However, BFAR emphasized that this allowance is not automatic. LGUs must first conduct consultations with Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils and other stakeholders. These consultations are designed to ensure that the voices of municipal fisherfolk and coastal residents are heard and considered before any decision is made.
Science also plays a key role in the process. BFAR said technical assessments are required before allowing any commercial fishing activity. These include checking the depth of the water, studying fish stocks, and assessing marine habitats to make sure that sensitive areas such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and spawning grounds are not harmed.
Data from scientific studies and stock assessments conducted by BFAR and partner institutions help determine whether fishing activity can be sustained without causing long-term damage. These studies aim to prevent overfishing and support the recovery of fish populations.
BFAR clarified that allowing commercial fishing in specific zones does not mean fishing is unregulated. All approved operations must follow strict rules. These include defined fishing zones, seasonal closures, limits on fishing gear, vessel monitoring systems, and stronger enforcement measures.
According to the agency, these controls are meant to balance food production needs with conservation goals. Commercial fishing contributes to fish supply for markets, but it must not come at the expense of small fisherfolk who depend on nearshore waters for daily survival.
The bureau also underscored that it remains open to constructive dialogue and peer-reviewed science. It said healthy public discussion is welcome, but it must be grounded in accurate information about the law and the science behind fisheries management decisions.
BFAR noted that misinformation can deepen fear and mistrust among fishing communities. Clear understanding of the rules helps ensure cooperation between national agencies, local governments, and fisherfolk.
As pressure on marine resources grows due to climate change, population growth, and illegal fishing, BFAR said science-based governance is more important than ever. Policies must protect the seas today while ensuring that future generations can still rely on them for food and livelihood.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, sustainability, and the responsible use of the country’s marine resources. It said protecting the ocean means protecting both nature and the people whose lives are tied to it.
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