The Municipality of Samal and the City of Balanga, Bataan completed the National Fisheries Compliance Audit on September 3-4, 2024 respectively, marking a milestone in their journey towards sustainable fisheries management.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government Central and Regional office in collaboration with key agencies including the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), Oceana Philippines, Rare Philippines, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR BMB), and DENR Manila Bay Coordinating Office (MBCO), led the national validation process.
Adding further support to the assessment process was the DILG Bataan team, led by Provincial Director Belina T. Herman, CESO V, joined by Cluster Team Leader Cristy M. Blanco, (LGOO) VI Haidee Balicolon, LGOO V Joana Marie Cruz, ADA VI Joseph Castro.
The FishCA National Award recognizes LGUs that excel in managing their municipal waters and ensuring compliance with environmental laws and regulations. By reaching the finals, Samal and Balanga have already set an example for other coastal LGUs, showcasing the positive impact of strong governance, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.
It is with high hopes that these efforts will inspire other coastal LGUs to follow suit, contributing to a collective movement towards the effective management of the Philippines' precious marine resources.