BFAR appeals Supreme Court decision on commercial fishing

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has appealed to the Supreme Court (SC) to reconsider its ruling allowing commercial fishing within the 15-kilometer boundary of municipal waters.

In a statement, BFAR confirmed it had filed a motion for reconsideration, emphasizing its commitment to exhausting all legal remedies on the issue.

“DA-BFAR recognizes the gravity of this case, which has far-reaching consequences for sustainable resource management, environmental protection, and the welfare of affected communities,” the agency stated.

The Supreme Court's First Division recently upheld a regional trial court (RTC) decision that declared certain provisions of the Fisheries Code and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) unconstitutional. 

The RTC had also issued a permanent injunction preventing authorities from enforcing the 15-kilometer municipal water limit.

BFAR reiterated its dedication to protecting the interests of small-scale fishers and coastal communities, expressing hope for a judicial resolution that balances environmental protection with the needs of those who depend on marine resources.

“The agency remains hopeful that the judicial process will yield a resolution that protects both the environment and the people who depend on its resources,” the statement read.

In addition to BFAR’s appeal, multiple parties have filed petitions to intervene in the case against Mercidar Fishing Corporation, the sole respondent.

Among the petitioners are the Municipality of Santa Fe, represented by Mayor Ithamar Espinosa; Oceana Philippines International, represented by its Vice President, Atty. Gloria Estenzo Ramos; and the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice. — DVM, GMA Integrated News