May 23, 2025, Cebu City – CCEF, as a member of the Science Advisory Group (SAG), participated in the 2nd Quarter Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 10 SAG Meeting held at the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 7 Conference Hall.
The meeting gathered key stakeholders and experts to discuss developments and research findings related to fisheries management within FMA 10. The agenda included:
- Review of the CY 2020 – 2025 Status of Top Species in FMA 10
- Presentation of the Study Results: “Regulating the Harvesting of Wild Seaweed for Commercial Use”
- Management Action for Decapterus macrosoma
- Proposal Development for Blue Swimming Crab Research
From 2020 to 2024, the top species caught in Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 10 is Selar crumenophthalmus (commonly known as bigeye scad), which accounts for 32% of the total catch. This is followed by Decapterus tabl (15%), Decapterus macrosoma (11%), Auxis thazard (6%), and Auxis rochei (5%). The dominance of these key species necessitated the establishment of Reference Points (RPs) and the adoption of Harvest Control Rules (HCRs) to ensure sustainable management.
To guide these measures, FMA 10 promotes a science-based approach to fisheries management, led by Region 7 through the National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP) teams under the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI). This approach allows for the development and implementation of appropriate management actions for key species based on scientific evidence.
In parallel, concerns have been raised over the unsustainable collection of wild seaweeds along the Danajon Bank Area. These seaweeds serve as a primary source of livelihood for marginalized coastal communities, who harvest them as part of a family enterprise. However, according to a study presented by Dr. Michael Roleda, continued harvesting may lead to the depletion of these valuable species.
In response, the FMA 10 Science Advisory Group (SAG) adopted recommendations to prioritize conservation efforts in the Danajon Bank. These include conducting community engagement activities and launching a large-scale information campaign to raise awareness on the ecological and scientific importance of the wild seaweeds. As these species serve not only for research but also as a genetic base for seaweed farming, protecting their natural habitat is critical.
On the management of Decapterus macrosoma, the SAG unanimously agreed to hold a dedicated workshop in the third quarter of 2025, tentatively scheduled in either Leyte or Bohol. Meanwhile, a proposal concerning the Blue Swimming Crab, potentially to be funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), is currently under discussion. The group is determining the proposed project’s title, scope, and coverage, which will be finalized in the upcoming SAG meeting.
These initiatives highlight the proactive role of the FMA 10 Science Advisory Group in advancing science-based fisheries management. By continuously reviewing technical data, reference points, and harvest strategies, the SAG provides informed recommendations to the FMA 10 Management Board, ensuring sustainable use and conservation of marine resources.
The inclusion of CCEF as a member of the FMA 10 Science Advisory Group is a strategic step toward ensuring that marine conservation is not only guided by science but also grounded in community realities. With its extensive experience in coastal resource management, environmental education, and community engagement, CCEF brings a unique and holistic perspective to the table.
