Strengthening Traceability and Coordination to Combat IUU Fishing in Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat

/ Project Updates / By

On January 22, 2026, key stakeholders gathered at the SARGEN Office, General Santos City Fish Port Complex, for a coordination meeting aimed at strengthening traceability systems and addressing Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing in Sarangani Province and Sultan Kudarat.

The meeting focused on presenting the key findings of the European Union (EU) audit, identifying existing gaps, and discussing recommended actions to improve compliance. Participants reviewed proposed amendments to the national Traceability System guidelines, clarified the process flow for Catch Validation (CV), and discussed documentation and reportorial requirements to ensure consistent implementation.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Eugene M. Casas, Division Chief of BFAR–RFIQU Region XII, emphasized the critical role of municipal fishing vessels in supplying fresh tuna to EU markets and highlighted the importance of proper designation of Catch Validation personnel. Discussions also covered issues related to vessel registration and renewal, enforcement of ordinances, and the need to consolidate and validate the list of licensed municipal fishing vessels in coordination with local government units (LGUs).

It was clarified that Official Receipts (ORs) do not constitute valid vessel licenses, a key compliance requirement under EU standards. BFAR assured participants of strengthened coordination with LGUs, the proper deployment of trained Catch Validation personnel, and the establishment of checkpoints at the General Santos Fishport requiring Catch Validation certification and corresponding Auxiliary Invoices.

As part of the agreed action points, BFAR–RFIQU, together with Municipal and City Coordinators, will conduct orientations with LGUs in Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat and organize a coordination meeting with the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) to engage brokers, suppliers, and buyers.

The activity reinforced the collective commitment of government agencies and stakeholders to enhance traceability, strengthen enforcement mechanisms, and ensure that fish entering the supply chain are sourced from legal and compliant vessels.