The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Bicol (BFAR-5) has taken measures to control the oversupply of “lawlaw,” commonly called “tamban,” in Bulan, Sorsogon, particularly during the recent Holy Week.

In a statement on Tuesday, BFAR-5 Director Ariel Pioquinto recognized the significant challenges faced by local fisherfolk and stated that the agency has collaborated with fisherfolk groups, people’s organizations, traders, and other stakeholders to develop practical measures and avoid similar incidents in the future.

Before the incident, BFAR-5 had already carried out post-harvest training on fish processing, including making smoked fish and fermented products, to boost the community’s ability to use excess catch.

The agency also began domestic distribution efforts, collaborating with local traders, community organizations, and regional chambers of commerce.

“Three BFAR reefer vans remain on standby to assist in distributing supplies to market outlets in Albay and Camarines Sur. However, the scale of the current volume continues to outpace existing facility capacities,” he said.

Pioquinto added that BFAR is also developing proposed management measures for “lawlaw” in Fisheries Management Area 7, including a proposed closed fishing season and additional regulatory actions to promote sustainable fishing practices and improve supply management.

The Philippine Fisheries Development Authority’s (PFDA) ice plant and cold storage facilities are also set to begin operations and are expected to address the immediate needs of fisherfolk by preserving product quality and minimizing waste during periods of oversupply.

The local government has developed protocols and contingency plans to enhance coordination, response, and prevent future losses of marine resources.

During Holy Week, fish processing plants temporarily shut down for the holiday break.

In Bulan, six major plants serve as the primary bulk buyers of lawlaw. In such instances, fisherfolk are informed in advance about the absence of large-scale orders or bookings.

However, situations like the current incident still arise when high catch volumes coincide with limited market operations.

The temporary closure of processing plants caused a shortage of immediate buyers, leading to an oversupply of lawlaw in the area.

As a highly perishable commodity, lawlaw needs quick processing or a dependable cold chain—from catch to transport—to keep quality and prevent spoilage.

Although the local government responded quickly by buying and distributing some of the surplus to residents, a large part still exceeded the limits of local demand and the current market.

BFAR continues to work closely with local government units, PFDA, people’s organizations, national government agencies, and other stakeholders to strengthen coordination and implement practical solutions to such incidents. (PNA)