May 27, 2025 | Narra, Palawan

In support of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), Western Philippines University (WPU), through its College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences (CFiNS), conducted a seminar-workshop on May 27, 2025, in Narra, Palawan, to promote sustainable fisheries management and strengthen community awareness of marine resource conservation.

The activity focused on disseminating Municipal Ordinance No. 1556, series of 2025, otherwise known as the Closed Fishing Season of Anchovy (Dilis) Ordinance. The ordinance was developed following WPU’s research on the reproductive biology of anchovies and declining catch production in Narra’s municipal waters, demonstrating how university research can contribute to science-based fisheries policies.

Conducted in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Narra, the seminar-workshop engaged 16 participants, including local fisherfolk and municipal representatives. WPU faculty members, Dr. Herminie P. Palla, Dr. Jean Beth S. Jontila, Ms. Hannah Mae Catalayban, Ms. Gladys Hannah Escalante and Dr. Rodul Balisco discussed the scientific and legal foundations of the ordinance and its importance in protecting fish stocks and promoting responsible fishing practices.

Through interactive discussions and participatory workshops, participants explored strategies for implementing, monitoring, and evaluating the closed fishing season, including its implications for fishing livelihoods.

The initiative highlights WPU’s commitment to translating scientific research into meaningful community education and supporting local governments in developing sustainable fisheries management practices.

[This article is in line with the SDGs 12, 14 & 17] 

Contributor: CFiNS