ILOILO – Starting today, the Visayan Sea will observe a three-month fishing moratorium to combat the severe decline in fish populations caused by overfishing.
Until Feb. 15, 2024, it is forbidden for fisherfolk to catch, sell or purchase certain fish species in parts of the Visayan Sea, known for its rich marine biodiversity.
According to Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Western Visayas director Remia Aparri, the Visayan Sea is a major contributor to the Philippine fishing industry. Its temporary closure aims to protect marine life during crucial breeding periods.
The species under protection are the following:
* Bali Sardine (Sardinella lemuru, locally known as tamban, tunsoy or haul-haul)
* Short-bodied Mackerel (Rastrelliger brachysoma, known as hasa-hasa)
* Goldstripe Sardine (Sardinella gibbosa, known as halobaybay, tamban, lapad, tamban lison or lapa)
* Indian Mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta, known as bulao or alumahan)
* Fimbriated Sardina (Sardinella fimbriata, known as tunsoy, lao-lao, tabagak, tamban or liryan)
* Rainbow Sardine (Dussumieria acuta, known as tulis, balantiyong or hilos-hilos)
This conservation effort covers several areas in the Visayas, including Olotayan Island and Culasi Point in Capiz, Talisay River in Iloilo, Tomonton Point in Negros Occidental, Gigantes Island Lighthouse in Iloilo, Madridejos and Bantayan Island in Cebu, and Danao River in Negros Occidental.
The Visayan Sea, bordered by the islands of Cebu, Negros, Masbate, Panay, and Leyte, is one of the largest fishing grounds in the country. It is vital for over 100,000 fisherfolk who depend on it for their sustenance and livelihood.
The area is also a habitat for diverse marine life, including corals, mangroves, seagrasses, and marine protected areas.
However, the Visayan Sea faces threats from illegal, unregulated fishing and increasing marine debris.
The closed season extends to several regions in Western Visayas, encompassing parts of Iloilo, Capiz, and Negros Occidental, as well as the Bantayan Island in Central Visayas.
Director Aparri urges local government units (LGUs), stakeholders, and the community, especially the fisherfolk, to support the conservation of the Visayan Sea by reporting any illegal fishing activities during the closed season./PN
