Davao City, Philippines - The Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 11 (DA-BFAR-11) has enforced a three-month fishing prohibition in the Davao Gulf from June 1 to August 31, marking the 11th consecutive year of this initiative to protect pelagic fish species. The regulation restricts the use of bag nets, ring nets, and small mesh fishing nets by commercial vessels, as well as activities by municipal fishing operators. This year's closure applies to commercial vessels ranging from 3.1 gross tons (GT) to over 150 GT.
According to Philippines News Agency, the annual closure is crucial for allowing fish stocks to replenish and ensuring the sustainable growth and reproduction of marine life in the gulf. The joint administrative order No. 02, issued by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Interior and Local Government, outlines these measures under the title 'Establishing Closed Season for the Conservation of Small Pelagic Fishes in Davao Gulf'. Gonzaga noted that the long-term implementation has yielded significant benefits not only for marine conservation but also for the local fishing communities. The Davao Gulf is recognized as a key biodiversity area and supports a range of marine life, including endangered species and various cetaceans.