By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the bright lights of the General Santos City Convention Center, proud tuna fishers, exporters, and officials from across the country gathered to celebrate the strength of the nation’s tuna industry—and to plan its future.
From September 2 to 4, 2025, the 25th National Tuna Congress was held in General Santos City, widely known as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines.” This year’s congress highlighted stronger collaboration between government and private sector to address key challenges in fishing, production, trade, and climate resilience.
Leading the opening ceremony on September 3 was Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., who expressed the national government’s full support for the country’s tuna industry.
Sec. Laurel: “Support for Tuna Fishers Will Continue”
In his speech, Sec. Laurel stressed the government’s commitment to improving policies that affect tuna fishing and export. He also promised continued innovation in the sector to ensure that small fishers benefit alongside big industry players.
“We must make sure that our tuna industry grows in a way that uplifts all—especially our coastal communities,” Laurel said. “This means fair regulations, sustainable practices, and strong market support.”
The tuna industry in the Philippines is one of the biggest contributors to the country’s fishery exports, generating over PHP 20 billion in annual revenue and employing thousands of workers in fishing, processing, and logistics.
General Santos alone accounts for more than 30% of the country’s total tuna catch, making it a vital hub for both domestic and international trade.
Key Issues: Sustainability, Trade, and Innovation
This year’s Tuna Congress tackled urgent issues such as overfishing, international trade regulations, high fuel costs, and the effects of climate change on fishing grounds.
DA–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) and other stakeholders also discussed efforts to improve cold storage, processing technologies, and traceability systems to meet global standards.
Exporters are under pressure to follow strict requirements from the European Union, Japan, and the United States—markets that demand proof of sustainable and legal fishing.
To address this, DA-BFAR is supporting programs that help fishers comply with international standards, such as the Catch Documentation and Traceability System.
Fishers Call for Better Access, Support
Small-scale tuna fishers present at the congress called for more direct government assistance, including easier access to loans, better weather monitoring tools, and training on sustainable fishing methods.
“Marami pa rin po sa amin ang walang sariling bangka o kagamitan. Sana po ay madagdagan pa ang suporta sa maliliit na mangingisda,” said one fisher from Sarangani.
In response, BFAR reiterated its commitment to inclusive growth, noting that upcoming programs will focus more on fisherfolk capacity-building, boat and gear support, and access to livelihood grants.
A Stronger Future for the Tuna Industry
As the Tuna Congress closed, participants renewed their commitment to preserving the country’s rich marine resources while growing the industry in a fair and sustainable way.
The event served as a reminder that the Philippines is a global leader in tuna—but this position must be protected through unity, innovation, and continued support for those who depend on the sea for their daily bread.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News