Government moves to expand regional cooperation for tuna fishers

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – The government is discussing bilateral agreements with other Asia Pacific nations in order to foster cooperation within the region and sustain the Philippines’ $180-million tuna industry.

This was announced by Agriculture Secretary Leonardo Montemayor at the opening of the 3rd National Tuna Congress in this city.

Citing problems which had battered the international tuna industry in recent years, such as over-production and soaring operational costs, Montemayor praised Philippine tuna industry operators for their "inherent competitiveness" and ability to maintain their global lead despite difficulties.

He also promised stronger support, saying that the government would be discussing the terms of bilateral agreements with government officials of Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and Palau who are attending the conference.

"Since our neighbors are also developing countries like us, we have to pursue these interests in a spirit of friendship, cooperation, and mutual benefit," said Montemayor, adding that the tuna congress was an "opportunity to discuss the delicate and urgent issue of poaching and piracy in the high seas and coastal areas."

In return for gaining fishing access to their territorial waters, the Philippines could provide viable business ventures, technology, and training on sustainable fisheries to these countries, he said.

Montemayor listed likely areas of government-private sector cooperation, which include facilitating fleet modernization; continuous R&D support; and fuel reimbursements for fishermen traveling to distant Pacific fishing grounds.

The government also sees the need for more fishports and cold storage facilities, marketing support, and removal of batteries to trade and unfair trade practices imposed on Philippine tuna exports, he said.

The Philippine tuna industry generates more than 100,000 jobs and $180 million in annual exports. Total tuna landing exceed 300,000 MT annually. The country ranks third in world tuna catches, and fifth among canned tuna producers. Most of the tuna industry is centered in General Santos City, and represents over 60 percent of the area’s economy.

The 3rd National Tuna Congress is supported by the GEM program of the United States Agency for International Development in collaboration with the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Department of Agriculture, Foreign Affairs, and Trade and Industry, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the General Santos City government. – GEM