Pili, Camarines Sur – On February 27, 2025, the Fisheries Management Area 1 (FMA 1) convened for its 16th Management Board (MB) meeting, presided over by Dr. Angel B. Encarnacion, Regional Director of the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Region 2, and Chairperson of FMA 1. The meeting brought together representatives from various sectors of FMA 1, making it a highly productive day of discussions, planning, and collaboration.

Key agenda included the CY 2024 accomplishments and CY 2025 plans, offshore wind projects in San Miguel Bay, the Philippine Rise Ocean Conservation Area Project, and a proposed study on governance and socio-economic factors within FMA 1. Additional topics included the establishment of Marine Science Research Stations in Regions 2 and 3, as well as the Reference Points and Harvest Control Rules and Measures in San Miguel Bay. Resource persons presented these topics, enriching the discussions and decision-making process.

The MB members also shared updates regarding activities, issues, and concerns relevant to their respective sectors.

Co-hosted by DA-BFAR 5 and the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA), the event was marked by strong institutional support. Regional Director Ariel Pioquinto, DA-BFAR 5 welcomed the participants and expressed his satisfaction in hosting the event. CBSUA University President Dr. Alberto Naperi also offered a message of support, emphasizing the university’s commitment to FMA 1’s initiatives and its partnership in the region’s sustainable development efforts.

Meantime, DENR 2 Regional Executive Director Gwendolyn Bambalan, MB member and representative for the Protected Area Management Board said that her office will be hosting the 17th MB meeting, scheduled on June 2025.

Attendees included Technical Working Group members from BFAR member regions 2, 3, 4A, 5, and the Cordillera Administrative Region, further strengthening the collaborative efforts across various areas.

The Fisheries Management Area 1 was established through FAO 263, with the primary aim of overseeing the sustainable development of the northern Pacific waters. The efforts and discussions at the 16th Management Meeting underscore the continued commitment of the board and its partners to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the region’s aquatic resources.

(K.Bugarin, FMA1/PROCA)