Fishing groups push gov't to relax commercial fishing restrictions in municipal waters

MANILA — A broad alliance of fishing industry participants submitted a manifesto to government authorities Wednesday demanding reforms to the country's fisheries regulations. The group, comprising more than 100 fisherfolk, fish buyers and other stakeholders, called for amendments to the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, specifically targeting the blanket prohibition on commercial fishing activities within municipal waters.

The coalition argued that the current restrictions have hindered the development of the fishing sector and limited economic opportunities for commercial operators who work in areas designated as municipal fishing grounds. According to the group's position, lifting these prohibitions could enhance productivity and generate additional revenue for the fishing industry.

The manifesto represents a significant push from within the fishing sector itself to reshape the regulatory framework governing maritime resource management. The 1998 Fisheries Code currently reserves municipal waters—extending up to 15 kilometers from the shoreline—primarily for small-scale and subsistence fishing operations.

The issue reflects ongoing debates about balancing resource conservation with economic development in the Philippines' fishing industry. Government officials have yet to respond publicly to the industry's proposal for legislative amendments.