By JEN BAYLON
The Negros Occidental provincial government has strongly expressed its support for the rights of small-scale fisherfolk and the protection of marine resources across the province.
This stance follows the recent Supreme Court (SC) decision allowing commercial fishers to operate within the 15-kilometer municipal waters previously reserved for local fisherfolk.
In an official statement, the provincial government reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the continued preferential access of small-scale fishers to these waters, recognizing their vital role in marine conservation and the local economy.
“We call on all stakeholders — government agencies, academe, civil society, and the public — to stand with us in safeguarding the welfare of our artisanal fishers and ensuring the sustainability of our coastal and marine ecosystems,” the statement said.
The local government stated that the ruling “presents a serious challenge for local government units, fisherfolk and coastal communities.”
According to the provincial government, the SC ruling allowing commercial fishing vessels within municipal waters threatens the livelihoods of small-scale fishers, disrupts marine biodiversity, and undermines decades-long efforts to maintain responsible fisheries management.
“We recognize their invaluable role in marine conservation and local economies and oppose any measures threatening their access to these critical fishing grounds,” the statement added.
It emphasized that these waters are crucial for the livelihoods of more than 45,000 marginalized fishing communities with 472 fisherfolk associations in the 25 coastal cities and municipalities in Negros Occidental, covering 187 barangays.
It further underscored that safeguarding these waters ensures food security, biodiversity conservation and sustainable fisheries management.
“We must uphold their preferential rights to municipal waters, allowing them to sustain their livelihoods while contributing to the nation’s food security,” the statement said.
As the situation unfolds, local authorities continue to seek ways to uphold sustainable fishing practices and safeguard the welfare of small-scale fishers who depend on municipal waters for their daily sustenance./JB, WDJ