A remarkable fishing phenomenon was recently recorded as fishermen hauled approximately 2,000 kilograms of anchovy, or fish locally known as bolinao, along the shores of Silago town in Southern Leyte.
According to Provincial Fisheries Officer Rowvic Benitez Docena of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources -Region VIII, this unexpected abundance was due to natural processes within the marine ecosystem.
One key factor identified was the heavy rainfall that caused nutrient runoff from the mountains to the sea. When combined with sunlight, this triggered a plankton bloom, which serves as the primary food source for many fish species. The plentiful food supply attracted schools of fish closer to the shore, resulting in the exceptional fish catch.
This occurrence brought both ecological benefits and economic gains to the residents of Silago. However, Docena emphasized the importance of sustainable fishing practices, especially during the spawning season of fish from November to January, to ensure long-term marine resource conservation.
BFAR Officer Docena highlighted the need for alternative livelihoods for fishermen to prevent overfishing. He proposed several measures, such as: 1) establishing marine protected areas and sanctuaries to safeguard coral reefs and sea grass beds, which serve as breeding and feeding grounds for fish; 2) preserving mangrove forests, which act as natural barriers against storms and tsunamis while providing habitats for marine species; and, 3) strengthening campaigns against overfishing, particularly during fish spawning periods.
Meanwhile, BFAR is considering implementing a fishing ban in Southern Leyte as part of Fisheries Management Area to protect the sardine population. The proposed ban would cover towns around Sogod Bay, including Maasin, Macrohon, Malitbog, Tomas Oppus, Bontoc, Libagon, Liloan, San Ricardo, and the Panaon Island area.
Although Southern Leyte is not yet under a fishing ban, Docena expressed optimism that such measures could help maintain the balance of the marine ecosystem and ensure abundant fish harvests for years to come.
A three-month fishing ban from November 15 to February 15 on sardines, mackerel and herrings in the Visayas Sea was imposed for 11 years now by BFAR under Administrative Order 167-3. The fishing ban is aimed to sustain the marine ecosystem and livelihood of an estimated 10,000 fishermen from the Visayan islands. It is a science-driven conservation effort to replenish dwindling fish stocks in the 16,000-square-kilometer Visayan Sea.
The goals of the closed season are to allow fish stocks to recover and reach maturity, protect key fish species during their peak spawning period, and promote the regeneration, sustainability, and long-term availability of these vulnerable species. (AVista, Source: BFAR) (Photo by Ian Esquillo)
