by Marvin Pamisa

SAN JUAN, Siquijor Province (Aug. 09) — In a significant step toward sustainable fisheries management, data analysts from the National Stock Assessment (NSAP) Program representing regions 7, 8, 9, 10, and 13 gathered in Siquijor Province from August 5-9, 2024, to analyze and consolidate data on the top five demersal species in Fisheries Management Area 9 (FMA-9).

According to Princess Mae T. Cena, NSAP Project Leader, demersal species are fishes that live on or near the sea bottom and are vital to the ecological and economic health of the marine environment.

The project leader added that analysts conducted time-series analyses to assess the stock status of these species across various fishing grounds within FMA-9.

To boot, of the top five species identified, the discussion centered on two— Upeneus sulphureus (yellowtail goatfish) and Upeneus moluccensis (freckled goatfish)—due to their significant cultural and economic roles in local communities.

This focused analysis is expected to inform the development of targeted management strategies that reflect the unique needs and realities of the fishing communities dependent on these species.

The data and findings will be presented to a scientific advisory group (SAG), which will prioritize species for management, ensuring that decisions are grounded in full-bodied scientific evidence.

BFAR-10 Regional Director, Edward B. Yasay, underscored the importance of the activity.

“We should realize that this activity is crucial, as the results will be used in formulating well-thought-out, data-driven, and science-based policies,” Yasay stressed.

This initiative highlights the commitment to fostering a sustainable balance between conserving marine ecosystems and supporting the livelihoods of those who rely on them. By prioritizing evidence-based decision-making, the effort aims to secure the long-term viability of the fisheries sector in FMA-9.