Navotas galunggong catch nearly doubles to 16,000 MT in March

Galunggong, or round scad, catch at the Navotas Fish Port Complex nearly doubled to more than 16,000 metric tons (MT) in March 2026 from just over 8,000 MT in the same period last year, the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) said.

Total galunggong landings reached 16,165.52 MT in March this year, up from 8,161.92 MT recorded in March 2025.

The PFDA said the peak season is expected to continue until the end of July.

“A decade of implementing the closed fishing season policy has contributed to the recovery of fish stocks, and we are now seeing the results in higher and more stable landings,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a statement.

Of the total volume, shortfin scad accounted for 9,731.68 MT, while bigeye scad reached 6,433.84 MT.

The PFDA attributed the increase to several factors, including the effective enforcement of the three-month fishing ban from November 1 to January 31, which allowed fish populations to recover.

It also cited environmental factors, noting that the early arrival of El Niño may have altered migration patterns, making fish schools easier to catch, along with smooth vessel operations in late January.

“Strengthening infrastructure will help minimize losses and ensure that increased landings translate into better quality fish and improved returns for stakeholders,” PFDA General Manager Glen Pangapalan said.—MCG, GMA News