The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Davao Region (BFAR-11) launched the 61st Fish Conservation Week on Monday, focusing on sustainability and food security.

“This annual event underscores the importance of conserving our fishery resources. Conservation is key to ensuring sustainability and achieving food security for the country,” Director Relly Garcia, BFAR-11 Officer-in-Charge, said in an interview.

Garcia highlighted the critical role of the marine ecosystem, noting that as an archipelago, the Philippines has thousands of farmers and fisherfolk who depend on such resources and contribute to food security.

“We are rich in natural resources and we must protect them. Securing food supply is vital, especially given challenges like those in the West Philippine Sea,” he said. “If we neglect our resources, the country could face significant consequences.”

BFAR-11 has been actively visiting coastal towns, including those in Davao Oriental, to address local concerns like the presence of unlicensed vessels, Garcia said.

“We encourage them to get licensed and we’re partnering with the Maritime Industry Authority and the National Telecommunications Commission to make this happen. We hope to resolve this by the end of the year,” Garcia said.

BFAR-11 had identified 50 unlicensed vessels, with operators showing willingness to comply with requirements. (PNA)