The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has tightened regulations on the blue swimming crab, locally known as ‘alimasag,’ to secure export markets and safeguard marine biodiversity.
BFAR issued Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) 277, which outlined measures for the blue swimming crab, including a 500-meter cap on the aggregate length of gillnets used during fishing operations.
This, as seafood exporters face increasingly stringent sustainability requirements from overseas buyers, particularly the US.
Citing studies, BFAR said the limit significantly reduces the incidental capture of marine mammals and other protected, threatened, and endangered species without sacrificing fishing efficiency.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the new rules highlight the government’s commitment to ensuring that environmental protection and industry growth go hand in hand.
‘Our blue swimming crab industry supports thousands of fisherfolk, processors, exporters, and their families. By embracing better fisheries management, we are protecting our marine resources while ensuring Philippine seafood continues to meet the high standards of premium international markets,’ Tiu Laurel said.
‘Sustainability is no longer just an environmental objective. It is a business imperative,’ he added.
With the new regulations aligning the Philippine fishery with the requirements of the US Marine Mammal Protection Act, the BFAR said this reinforces the country’s reputation as a ‘reliable and sustainable seafood supplier at a time when global buyers increasingly reward responsible sourcing.’
Among the order’s key provisions are stronger enforcement by BFAR in coordination with local government units (LGUs) and fisheries law enforcement agencies, administrative sanctions for violators, and a mandatory review every three years to ensure the measures remain responsive to conditions on the ground.
The agency said the policy was crafted after extensive consultations with LGUs, fisherfolk, processors, scientists, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders.
BFAR said industry players welcomed the order, saying responsible fisheries management is essential to protecting the livelihoods of thousands of coastal families that depend on blue swimming crabs.
With this, BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig, said the collaborative approach is key to the industry’s long-term success.
‘Better management with the active participation of our fishing communities and industry partners, we can protect our marine resources while securing livelihoods and maintaining access to global markets,’ Salilig said.
For Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Bayate, this also bolsters the country’s position in one of its most important seafood markets.
‘This is a critical step toward restoring our access to the US, an important market for Philippine blue swimming crabs,’ she said.