Volume 7 Issue No 3 July – September 2025

Abstract

The Philippine marine fisheries sector is critical to the nation's welfare, supporting 1.6 million jobs and contributing 1.3% to the national GDP, while providing 34.28 kilograms of fish per capita annually for food security. Despite this vital role, the sector faces significant challenges, exemplified by a projected 2.6% decline in total fisheries production in 2025. In response, the Department of Agriculture-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) leads concerted efforts to ensure resource sustainability. Key research is concentrated on the biology and utilization of high-value species like the blue swimming crab, sea cucumber, spiny lobster, abalone, and mangrove crab, alongside the development of innovative hatchery techniques and ecosystem management studies.