Local government units (LGUs) across the Philippines are mounting a unified opposition against the Supreme Court’s ruling allowing commercial fishing vessels to operate within municipal waters. This collective resistance underscores the critical role of local leaders in safeguarding marine ecosystems and securing the livelihood of small-scale fishers. The controversial decision nullified key provisions of the Fisheries Code, which previously protected municipal waters—those within 15 kilometers of shore—for small fisherfolk. The ruling has since sparked widespread outcry from coastal communities, environmental advocates, and policymakers who argue that allowing commercial fishers to exploit these waters will lead to overfishing, habitat destruction, and economic displacement of artisanal fishers.

Angelo, A. L. (2025, March 20). LGUs must stand firm against commercial fishing ruling. Daily Guardian, pp. 4, 9.