The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said it will conduct studies for the possible implementation of a closed fishing season in waters off Bohol as part of efforts to address the perennial problem on expensive fish in the island province.
BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig, in an interview over station dyRD on Monday, said a temporary fishing prohibition will lead to increased fish supply.
“Usa na [closed season] sa intervention na pwede natong mahimo diri sa Bohol,” said Salilig.
Saliig noted that implementing a closed fishing season has helped Zamboanga City, the province of Palawan and other coastal localities in maintaining an abundant fish supply.
However, studies still need to be conducted to determine the areas in Bohol in which the prohibition will be imposed.
“Mag himo to og study kung asang lugara or municipality kung aha nato buhaton ang closed season, with the help of the academe, researchers, and local government units,” he said.
Several administrations have tried but failed to address the province’s longstanding fish price woes.
Earlier this year, a measure was proposed in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to implement a “buy-back” system.
The proposal made by Provincial Board Member Nathaniel Binlod, seeks to allow local government units with the support of the provincial government to buy fish directly from fishermen.
The purchased fish will then be sold in LGU-supervised fish stalls and distribution points in public markets across the province to ensure price control.
It also seeks the creation of a “Fish Price Monitoring Task Force.” (A. Doydora)
