The Department of Agriculture (DA), through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), has tightened rules governing the country’s blue swimming crab fishery, betting that better conservation today will secure export markets, protect marine biodiversity, and keep one of the country’s most valuable fisheries thriving for years.
Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) No. 277 introduces measures for the blue swimming crab, locally known as alimasag, including a 500-meter cap on the aggregate length of gillnets used during fishing operations.
Studies have shown the limit significantly reduces the incidental capture of marine mammals and other protected, threatened, and endangered species without sacrificing fishing efficiency.
The new regulations align the Philippine fishery with the requirements of the US Marine Mammal Protection Act, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a reliable and sustainable seafood supplier at a time when global buyers increasingly reward responsible sourcing.
The order comes as seafood exporters face increasingly stringent sustainability requirements from overseas buyers, particularly the US.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the new rules underscore 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,” said Tiu Laurel. “Sustainability is no longer just an environmental objective. It is a business imperative.”
Among the order’s key provisions are stronger enforcement by BFAR in coordination with local government units 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 policy was crafted after extensive consultations with local governments, fisherfolk, processors, scientists, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders.
BFAR National Director Elizer S. 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, the order also strengthens 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.
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.
