GENERAL SANTOS CITY (MindaNews / 22 June) – The National Tuna Congress (NTC) will hold its 25th edition from September 2 to 4 in General Santos City, bringing together industry stakeholders to address sustainability challenges and strengthen the country’s tuna sector. Kenrick Teng, chair of the 25th NTC, expects 1,200 participants, including industry leaders, policymakers, fishers, and scientists. The event, themed “National Tuna Congress @ 25: Renewing Commitments and Intensifying Strategic Partnerships,” aims to foster innovation and compliance with global standards while uplifting fishing communities.
General Santos City, known as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines,” hosts six of the country’s seven tuna canneries. In 2024, tuna production reached 201,034 metric tons, a 25% increase from 2023. Teng emphasized the need for resilience and collaboration in the face of sustainability and trade challenges.
Rosanna Bernadette Contreras of the Socsksargen Federation of Fishing and Allied Industries (SFFAII) highlighted the importance of combating illegal fishing and improving market access through cooperation. The congress will feature discussions on tuna stock health, sustainability, and traceability, alongside presentations on maritime technology and trade updates.
The event will open with a caravan, trade exhibit, and a summit for handline fishers, followed by plenary sessions with government officials and industry experts. NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan will deliver closing remarks. The SFFAII, organizer of the annual congress, aims to drive long-term solutions for the tuna industry. (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)
