MSC Orientation for the 4th Batch of Commercial Tuna Handliners in General Santos City

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An orientation on the Marine Stewardship Council’s (MSC) eco-labeling program and FFSAPI-SARGEN Handline Fishery Improvement Project for Commercial and Municipal Tuna Handliners in General Santos City was facilitated on November 28, 2023 by SFFAII Project Officer Shalimar Abdurahman.  

The said orientation is part of the 4-day Capacity Building for the Commercial Tuna Handliners at held at London Beach Resort and Hotel, organized by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in partnership with the SOCSKSARGEN Federation of Fishing and Allied Industries, Inc. (SFFAII). 

Ms. Abdurahman  presented the process flow on how to secure an MSC Certificate. According to her the process includes pre-assessment, FIP Formulation, Implementation with Audits, and the Full Assessment. She also discussed the three (3) Principles to complete the pre-assessment stage, part of which is the Principle on Sustainable target fish stocks; Environmental Impact of Fishing; and Effective Management. Next on the process, as per Ms. Abdurahman, is the Fishery Improvement Project, this is a collaborative and adaptive approach focused on rebuilding and maintaining fish stocks at sustainable levels. She explained that FIP is typically initiated by stakeholders within the seafood industry, including fishers, processors, retailers, NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations), and other relevant parties.  

Moreover, according to Ms. Abdurahman, FIP is established to help fisheries that are not yet certified as sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), but have the potential to achieve sustainability with targeted efforts. These projects can cover a range of issues, including overfishing, bycatch reduction, habitat protection, data collection and analysis, and improved management practices.  

Ms. Abdurahman encouraged the participating Commercial Tuna Handliners to aim for the MSC Certification for this will contribute to the assurance of conservation of marine ecosystems, the protection of vulnerable species, and the long-term viability of the seafood industry. She explained that explained that MSC eco-labeling program a significant role in transforming seafood markets by creating demand for sustainable products.   

Lastly, Ms. Abdurahman emphasized that the benefits of MSC certification extend far beyond environmental protection. It also opens up new market opportunities for Philippine tuna exporters, allowing them to access a wider range of markets, particularly those that prioritize sustainable seafood products. The MSC label serves as a guarantee to consumers that the tuna they purchase is responsibly sourced, fostering greater consumer confidence and demand for Philippine tuna products.