The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) raised concerns over the declining fish catch in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), following reports from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Data showed that fish harvested in the WPS dropped to 101,000 metric tons in the first half of 2024, compared to the same period last year.
BFAR acknowledged that the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea have significantly contributed to this decline.
To address the situation, the agency plans to intensify monitoring, control, and surveillance efforts in the country’s waters, including the WPS.
According to BFAR Spokesperson Nazario Briguera, a ₱1.5 billion budget has been allocated for additional floating assets, which include a 50-meter steel-hulled multi-mission offshore vessel and an 80-meter steel-hulled multi-purpose refrigerated cargo vessel.
BFAR will also acquire more assets under the “LAYAG West Philippine Sea” program to boost fish harvest in the region.