The European Union has lifted its warning issued against the Philippines and South Korea in 2014 about fishing regulation, after both countries improved their legal systems to tackle illegal fishing.
The European Commission, the administrative body of EU, said in a statement it revoked the yellow card warning issued to the Philippines in June 2014, regarding measures to fight illegal fishing.
The EC issued the “yellow card” formal notice to the Philippines on June 10, 2014 and advised the country to fulfill its commitment in deterring and preventing IUU fishing to avoid the possibility of being identified as a non-cooperating country in the international fight against IUUF.
A yellow card is one step before trade sanctions will be imposed.
“Today, the European Commission has revoked the warning yellow card issued to the Philippines in June 2014 regarding measures to fight illegal fishing. The EU acknowledges Philippines’ efforts to partner up with us in fighting illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing,” the EC said.
European Commissioner for environment, maritime affairs and fisheries Karmenu Vella said the Philippines has taken responsible action, amended its legal systems and switched to a proactive approach against illegal fishing.
The European Commission said Korea and the Philippines had carried out appropriate reforms of their legal systems and were now equipped to tackle illegal fishing.
EU is the world’s biggest fish importer. The Philippines exported P9.4 billion (165 million euros) worth of fish products to the EU in 2013.
“Achievements made by the Philippines include the adoption of a new Fisheries Code with a deterrent scheme of sanctions, the improvement of the traceability and catch certification schemes, reinforced cooperation with Papua New Guinea for inspection and control and coverage of the activities of the long distant fleet operating beyond Philippines waters,” the statement said.
EU ambassador to the Philippines Guy Ledoux said the recognition meant the “identification” procedure that had started with a yellow card in June 2014 was stopped, the yellow card revoked, after the good work done by the Philippines government and Congress.
The Agriculture Department welcomed the EU decision and committed to put an end to unsustainable fishing practices which compromise not only the country’s marine resources but also the long-term livelihood of around 1.8 million fishery stakeholders.
“The department is pleased with this development as it formally recognizes the government’s serious efforts to prevent and eliminate all forms of fisheries resource abuse,” said Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala.