BFAR: Continued fishing amid advisories caused 'tamban' oversupply in Sorsogon

The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) said Wednesday that fishing activity remained high despite advisories to limit catches, leading to an oversupply of “tamban” in Bulan, Sorsogon.

In a statement, the agency said that during Holy Week, six fish processing plants temporarily suspended operations, restricting bulk purchases.

Prior to the holiday, plant management had already advised fisherfolk of limited or halted buying, but fishing purportedly continued, resulting in a significant buildup of supply, BFAR said.

"Tamban" are small sardines commonly found in Philippine waters and widely used in food processing, such as canned sardines.

Citing data from the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority, DA-BFAR said around 60 tubs per boat were delivered to the fish port, with an estimated 200 to 300 boats arriving daily in the previous week.

“Despite advisories on temporary ‘stop buying,’ the volume accumulated at the port exceeded local market and consumer capacity, resulting in spoilage,” the agency added.

DA-BFAR said it coordinated with local traders, people’s organizations, and chambers of commerce to help manage the surplus, while also stepping up post-harvest training on smoking and fermentation.

It added that canneries have since resumed operations and are now accepting supplies, helping prevent further accumulation at the port.

DA-BFAR urged fisherfolk to heed plant advisories, consider market demand, and limit harvesting during periods of low buying capacity.—MCG, GMA News