ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-9 has declared Nov. 15, 2024 to Feb. 15, 2025 as closed fishing season for sardines in the Zamboanga Peninsula.
BFAR Regional Director Al Zhat Kunting leads the send-off ceremony in Zamboanga City for the 14th closed fishing season for sardines at the Zamboanga Peninsula. (City Hall PIO)
Within this three-month period, fishing boats of sardine companies, mostly based here, are prohibited from fishing in the 6,000-square nautical mile conservation zone in East Sulu Sea, Basilan Strait, and Sibuguey Bay.
BFAR-9 Regional Director Al-Zhat Kunting led stakeholders in giving their messages of support for the closed fishing season.
The traditional send-off of personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard, BFAR, maritime police, and the Philippine Navy guarding the seas against violators of the fishing ban was also held.
“The closed season is not just a pause in fishing activities, but a powerful reminder of our duty to protect and care for the natural resources that sustain us. This ceremony is a celebration of our ongoing commitment to responsible stewardship and our resolve to work together in ensuring the continued prosperity of our marine ecosystems,” Mayor John Dalipe said.
The closed fishing season is implemented by BFAR Administrative Circular 255, Series of 2014.