ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- The Visayan Sea Closed Season dubbed "Pahuway sang Baybay" in the local dialect, aimed at providing a respite for marine life, particularly during the spawning season of crucial species such as sardines, herrings, and mackerels.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said in a statement that this strategic pause allowed the said species to reproduce and replenish their populations, contributing to the overall health and sustainability of the Visayan Sea.

Per the NSAP report, the mean length at full captivity of sardines in 2020 increased to 13.69 cm from a four-year average of 12.76 cm between 2016 to 2019, offering hope for the sustainable growth of these vital marine populations.

The BFAR's approach to enforcement during the closed season emphasized voluntary compliance from all stakeholders, characterized by not merely limiting fishing activities but also fostering a sense of responsibility for the protection, conservation, and management of marine resources.

Collaborative efforts involved 59 joint seaborne patrol operations, 23 joint market and landing denial operations, portside boarding and inspection, and 15 apprehensions during the three months.

Some administrative penalties include fines and confiscation of fishing gear, while criminal penalties may result in imprisonment and additional fines.

The Bureau and the Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 11 Management Bodies further committed to continuing the call for the support of the LGUs, municipal and commercial fishers, and key stakeholders to eliminate the top four illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) Fishing threats including Danish Seine (hulbot-hulbot), trawl fishing in municipal waters, dynamite fishing, and using of fine-meshed nets to sustain the gains of the closed season.

BFAR plans to enhance the effectiveness of the Visayan Sea Closed Season through strengthened collaboration with the Regional Inter-Agency Task Force and continuous monitoring and scientific data collection to assess the long-term impact of the closed season. (AAL/AGP/PIA 6)