More than just a celebration, the 62nd Fish Conservation Week serves as a nationwide call to protect the country’s seas and aquatic resources. With challenges such as poverty in coastal communities, illegal fishing, and the growing threat of Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated fishing, the observance highlights the urgent need for sustainable fisheries to ensure food, livelihood, and security for generations to come.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, BFAR Regional Director Remia Appari stated that the celebration aims to provide continuous information dissemination and raise awareness so that all stakeholders will actively participate in the conservation, protection, and management of marine and aquatic resources.
She noted that the event highlights activities such as coastal clean-up drives and the observance of National Maritime Day every third week of September. These efforts, according to her, are part of ensuring that fish and aquatic products continue to provide nutrition, livelihood, and long-term food security for Filipinos.
Appari also underscored that the sustainable management of fisheries remains a pressing national concern. She explained that challenges such as poverty among coastal communities, the prevalence of illegal fishing, and the threat of Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing continue to endanger both the marine environment and the future of fisheries in the country.
As part of the government’s initiatives, the 62nd Fish Conservation Week celebration promotes the crucial role of fisheries and aquatic resources in building resilient communities, supporting the economy, and safeguarding the well-being of present and future generations.
