By Kenneth Marcos 
Fisherfolk, scientists, and local officials gathered in a quiet hotel hall in Butuan City, all focused on one shared concern: how to protect sardines and coastal livelihoods for the years ahead. The meeting marked a key step in using science to guide decisions that affect thousands of families who depend on the sea.
On December 5, 2025, the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP) Caraga presented its preliminary findings on the Reproductive Biology Study of Sardines and the Boat and Gear Inventory (BGI). The presentation was held at Almont City Hotel and brought together stakeholders from government agencies, research institutions, and the fisheries sector.
The activity aimed to assess progress, consolidate early outputs, and validate research methods used in the studies. These efforts form part of the Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency (FISHCORE) Project under the Fisheries and Coastal Resilient Resource Planning and Management (FishCRRM) Subcomponent 1.1.
The research is being carried out in Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 9, which covers the Caraga Region. This area is known for its rich marine resources and active fishing communities, many of which rely heavily on sardines for food and income.
The Reproductive Biology Study focuses on understanding how sardines grow, mature, and reproduce. This information is crucial in identifying the best seasons for fishing and the right size of fish to catch, helping prevent overfishing and stock collapse. Sardines are among the most affordable sources of protein for Filipino families, especially in coastal and low-income communities.
Meanwhile, the Boat and Gear Inventory provides an updated picture of fishing boats and equipment operating in the region. By knowing how many boats are active and what gear they use, authorities can better manage fishing pressure and enforce fair and sustainable practices.
Officials said the data gathered will help ensure that fishing rules are based on science, not guesswork. Science-based management allows policymakers to set closed seasons, catch limits, and gear regulations that protect fish stocks while still supporting livelihoods.
The NSAP Caraga team emphasized that the presentation of initial results is only the beginning. Feedback from experts and stakeholders will be used to refine the findings and improve data accuracy before final recommendations are made.
The studies support the broader goals of the FISHCORE Project, which aims to strengthen coastal resilience, improve fisheries governance, and promote sustainable use of marine resources. These goals are especially important as climate change continues to affect fish populations, ocean temperatures, and weather patterns.
Caraga’s fishing communities are among those most vulnerable to these changes. Stronger storms and shifting fish habitats can reduce catch and income, making science-based planning even more urgent.
By investing in research and collaboration, the government hopes to balance environmental protection with food security and economic stability. Programs like NSAP help ensure that future generations of Filipinos can continue to rely on the sea for nourishment and livelihood.
As the discussions ended, participants agreed on one point: protecting fisheries starts with understanding them. The early findings shared in Butuan signal progress toward smarter, fairer, and more sustainable fisheries management in the region.
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