Fishing ban lifted in Zamboanga Peninsula, Visayan Sea

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) lifted the three-month closed fishing season in Zamboanga Peninsula and Visayan Sea which was done to conserve certain fish populations in the area.

As of February 16, 2025, commercial fishers of sardines may resume their operations within the conservation area of Zamboanga Peninsula, specifically in the waters of East Sulu, Basilan Strait, and Sibuguey Bay, BFAR said.

Likewise, commercial fishing of sardines, herrings, and mackerels in the waters of the Visayan Sea has been allowed again.

BFAR implemented the fishing ban on November 15, 2024, as part of its conservation effort of specific fish species found in the waters in the Visayas and Mindanao regions. —Giselle Ombay/KG, GMA Integrated News