Philippines closes Tayabas Bay fishing season to protect spawning tamban

LUCENA CITY — Fisheries authorities in the Calabarzon region have begun enforcing a closed season for tamban fishing in Tayabas Bay, restricting harvest activities to safeguard the species during its reproductive cycle. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) implemented the measure to provide Bali Sardinella populations the necessary conditions to spawn and rebuild depleted stocks in the bay.

The closure represents a key conservation strategy for managing one of the region's important commercial fish species. By restricting fishing during peak spawning months, authorities aim to ensure adequate recruitment of juvenile fish into the population, addressing concerns over declining catches in recent years.

The seasonal restriction is part of broader fisheries management efforts in Calabarzon to balance resource extraction with long-term sustainability. BFAR enforcement teams will monitor compliance throughout the closure period, which typically aligns with the fish's natural reproductive calendar.

Local fishing communities have been advised of the temporary restrictions. The agency has indicated that the measure will remain in effect until spawning activity concludes, after which regulated fishing operations are expected to resume with improved stock levels.