The Philippine seas are more than just bodies of water; they are lifelines, history books, and food baskets for millions of Filipinos. They shape the lives of countless communities, especially small-scale fishers who rely on these municipal waters for survival. At the heart of this ecosystem lies Republic Act 8550, amended by RA 10654, which limits commercial fishing vessels from operating within municipal waters. This law is not merely a rule etched on paper—it is a lifeline for the vulnerable and a safeguard for a fragile marine ecosystem under threat.

Lagon, H. M. (2025, January 22). Saving small fishers. Daily Guardian, p. 7.