DELIVERIES of galunggong (round scad) at the Navotas Fish Port Complex almost doubled in March compared to the same period last year, the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) said.
Landings of the staple fish reached 16,165.52 metric tons (MT), up from 8,161.92 MT in 2024. This includes two galunggong varieties — 9,731.68 MT of shortfin scad and 6,433.84 MT of bigeye scad.
“The Navotas Fish Port Complex was able to manage the significantly higher volume smoothly, ensuring proper unloading and distribution across the supply chain,” PFDA general manager Glen Pangapalan said.
The peak season catch was attributed to improved fishing conditions and recovery from the closed season, implemented annually from Nov. 1 to Jan. 31, allowing fish stocks to replenish, the PFDA said.
“A decade of implementing the closed fishing season policy has contributed to the recovery of fish stocks, and we are now seeing the results in higher and more stable landings,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said.
It also reflects the continued vitality of the domestic fisheries sector, which plays an important part in food supply stability in the country, Pangapalan said.
Likewise, the early onset of El Niño could have affected fish migration patterns and enhanced catch efficiency, the PFDA added.
Continuous improvements in post-harvest, logistics, and cold storage facilities are crucial in sustaining the advancements in the fish sector, Pangapalan said.
“Strengthening infrastructure will help minimize losses and ensure that increased landings translate into better quality fish and improved returns for stakeholders,” he added.
The sector continues to support the livelihoods of fishing communities and other stakeholders of the industry.
The galunggong peak fishing season is expected to last until the end of July.
Giselle Jordan
