Oceana Philippines raised concerns about President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.'s Fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), stating that it failed to address crucial issues affecting the nation's fishing sector.
Oceana Philippines Vice-President Von Hernandez criticized the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources for sending mixed signals regarding their support for amendments that would permit commercial fishing within municipal waters, rather than enforcing the existing 15-kilometer exclusive fishing zone designated for small-scale fishers.
Hernandez also expressed doubt about the government's focus on aquaculture investments, arguing for the necessity of stronger protection for municipal waters and the establishment of a comprehensive fishery recovery plan.
