Project Updates

On February 13, 2025, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) National Director, Elizer Salilig, visited General Santos City to engage with key stakeholders in the fishing industry. During his meeting with the SARGEN Handline Fishing Association, the Fisheries Improvement Project (FIP) was presented highlighting its background, progress, and objectives. Director Salilig expressed BFAR’s […]

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources presented the initial results of the Fisheries Observers deployment study on February 11, 2025 during a stakeholder meeting held at Venue 88, General Santos City. This study aids the development of Fish Aggregate Device (FAD) Managament, Endangered, Threatened and Protected (ETP) Management and By-Catch Management.  The study is conducted

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 12 convened industry stakeholders on February 4, 2025, in General Santos City for the Fishing and Allied Services Industry Tripartite Council (ITC) Meeting. This gathering brought together private employers, workers, labor groups, processors, and government agencies to address key challenges in the fishing sector and enhance industry

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 12 has expressed its full support for the Fisheries Improvement Project (FIP), following a presentation of the initiative’s goals and activities. The FFSAPI-SARGEN Handline Fisheries Improvement Project is a key effort to promote sustainable fishing practices and improve the livelihoods of local fishing communities. This was introduced

The document, titled “Views of Two Organizations on Harvest Control Rules and Strategies for Yellowfin and Bigeye Tuna,” was submitted by industry representatives from the Philippines during the 21st Regular Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), held from November 28 to December 3, 2024, in Suva, Fiji.  The report presents the

The Employer’s Forum organized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on October 31, 2024, in General Santos City, centered on improving labor standards, occupational safety, and productivity in industries such as fishing, manufacturing, and labor services. The event gathered about 90 participants, including 23 from the FFSAPI-Sargen Handline Fisheries Improvement Project. The program

From October 14 to 19, 2024, Becky Caton, Key Traceability Social Auditor visited General Santos City to conduct a Social Risk Assessment focusing on transparency and operational compliance within the fishing industry. The multi-day audit aimed to assess vessel operations, management practices, and crew conditions across various fishing sites and companies. The event commenced with

From August 5-8, 2024, a specialized training program was held at Greenleaf Hotel, General Santos City, to enhance the skills of 45 tuna handliners. Tailored to the unique needs of the tuna handline fishery, the program focused on sustainability and improving operational practices in line with the Fisheries Improvement Project (FIP). The training opened with

On August 7, 2024, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region XII, in collaboration with 27 government agencies, hosted the One-Stop-Shop: Programa ug Serbisyo para sa Mananagat at Market 1, General Santos Fish Port Complex. The event ran from 7 AM to 3 PM and provided essential services to the fishing community. The activity