According to the media report BFAR chief Asis Perez is amenable to a transition period in the imposition of the close season for commercial fishing in the region. After strict consultation with the Industrial Group of Zamboanga, Inc. (IGZI) initiated by Mayor Celso Lobregat BFAR is close to find a solution to the squabble between BFAR and IGZI in the imposition of the close season for commercial fishing.
The press release of the bureau states that IGZI has been insisting on the December-to-March close season, which they have been implementing for the past four years, while BFAR is firm on its November-to-February order to be implemented starting this year.
During the consultation, Lobregat has recommended a transition period in the imposition of the close fishing season set from November to March. BFAR chief has vowed to strongly endorse Lobregat’s recommendation to the National Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (NFARMC) and to Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala for approval.
According to Perez Lobregat’s recommendation is a well thought of proposal and is based on science and logic. The IGZI fully supports Lobregat’s recommendation, which is expected to diffuse the squabble over the period of the close season which threatens to affect the operation of the sardine industry and fishing firms in this city.
