The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) is intensifying its campaign against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing through a series of maritime enforcement and livelihood initiatives for 2026.
BFAR, in its 2026 year-starter press conference, detailed plans to expand maritime patrols, upgrade traceability systems and tighten enforcement of national fisheries laws to ensure compliance with international standards.
Officials said the government would also increase support for fisherfolk by providing better access to commodities such as hito, crayfish, shrimp and tuna to foster sustainable livelihoods and discourage illegal practices.
“Protecting marine resources and empowering law-abiding fisherfolk go hand in hand,” DA-BFAR said in a statement, noting that these efforts are critical to national food security and the long-term viability of the sector.
The 2026 strategy follows a performance boost in the 2025 Global IUU Fishing Index, where the Philippines ranked 54th among 152 coastal nations.
The biennial index, published by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC), measures a country’s vulnerability to illicit fishing and its effectiveness in prevention.
In 2025, the bureau increased law enforcement presence by deploying patrol vessels and broadening coastal operations. It also enhanced compliance with the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission’s regional rules.
Beyond enforcement, the agency provided alternative income streams through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) and the Development of the Salt Industry Project.
These programs assisted coastal residents in transitioning to aquaculture, fish processing and salt production.
Fisheries officials attributed the improved international ranking to sustained governance, more aggressive enforcement and the success of community-based livelihood programs.
