A global coalition advocating for fisheries transparency has endorsed calls from the Philippine government and local fishermen to reinstate mandatory tracking for commercial fishing vessels. They warn that the absence of such a system could hinder efforts against illegal fishing and jeopardize access to key seafood markets.
The Importance of Vessel Monitoring
Without a clear legal framework, the country's ability to combat illegal fishing is weakened.
Ryan Orgera, CFT Director
- Coalition for Fisheries Transparency (CFT) supports appeals for vessel tracking.
- Supreme Court ruling against tracking could impact seafood export markets.
The Coalition for Fisheries Transparency (CFT) has raised concerns following a Supreme Court ruling that deemed Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) No. 266 unconstitutional. The order mandated vessel monitoring systems for commercial fishing boats.
This Supreme Court decision, issued on January 21, 2026, was prompted by motions from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and local fisherfolk challenging the ruling. The court found the regulation violated constitutional protections, including rights against unreasonable searches.
CFT Director Ryan Orgera emphasized that a lack of vessel monitoring could severely impact the Philippines' ability to enforce fisheries laws and comply with international commitments, particularly regarding illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
The coalition pointed out that major seafood markets, particularly in the European Union, increasingly require detailed tracking data to ensure compliance with trade regulations.
The Philippines, which produces 10% of the global blue swimming crab supply, faces additional pressure as the U.S. recently restricted imports due to inadequate monitoring of fishery operations.
Labor coalition Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (SENTRO) echoed these concerns, linking the issue of vessel monitoring to potential risks for the Philippines' trade preferences under the EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+).
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. expressed optimism that the Supreme Court might reconsider its decision, asserting that vessel monitoring systems are crucial in the global fight against IUU fishing.
The Supreme Court's ruling also raised questions about compliance with regional fisheries management organizations, potentially affecting the Philippines’ international trade relations.