Several Filipino fisherfolk and environmental activists rallied today, December 30, 2024. They gathered at Quezon City Memorial Circle, near the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) headquarters. The protest condemned a recent Supreme Court (SC) decision. This decision effectively removes restrictions on commercial fishing within 15 kilometers of the coastline.
The protest was organized by the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ). Oceana Philippines also took part. Pangisda Pilipinas and Pangingisda Natin Gawing Tama (PANAGAT) joined the effort as well. Other groups also contributed to the event. They target BFAR for its alleged inaction in a case that led to the ruling. The SC upheld a lower court decision. This decision allows Mercidar Fishing Corporation to fish in municipal waters. The exception is in very shallow areas. This effectively negates provisions of the Philippine Fisheries Code (Republic Act 8550), which previously restricted commercial fishing in these areas.
The SC’s decision, according to Atty. Aaron Pedrosa, stems from BFAR’s failure. Pedrosa is Sanlakas Secretary-General and head of PMCJ’s Legal Team. BFAR failed to timely appeal the Malabon Regional Trial Court’s decision. Pedrosa argued that the ruling creates an uneven playing field. It pits small-scale fisherfolk against large corporations. The ruling undermines crucial protections for vulnerable communities.
Laica Rayel is PMCJ’s Food, Land, Water, and Climate Change (FLWC) campaign officer. She highlighted the impact on the livelihoods of an estimated 140,000 families. These families are represented by PMCJ’s member organizations. She emphasized the significance of small-scale fishing in providing food security for a significant portion of the population. She warned that allowing commercial fishing will increase environmental damage.
The protestors called for government intervention. They urged BFAR to appeal the SC decision. They demanded the protection of the rights and livelihoods of small-scale fisherfolk. They see the ruling as a violation of social justice principles. It infringes on environmental justice as well. They consider it a setback in the fight against food insecurity. The protest concluded with a strong declaration of continued action to protect the rights of Filipino fisherfolk.
