The country’s tuna exporters risk losing their sustainability certifications due to a Supreme Court ruling that allowed commercial fishing vessels access to municipal waters, according to environmental group Oceana. Oceana noted that such a move stoked worries over industry stakeholders, citing their concerns that the High Court’s decision could jeopardize the country’s access to crucial export markets, where traceability and sustainability of fish products are required. “Allowing commercial vessels in municipal waters raises serious questions about stock management and environmental enforcement,” Veronica Rabano of Jarla Trading, a member of the Philippine Association of Tuna Processors Inc. (PATPI) said.

Pelonia, A. (2025, August 21). 'Supreme Court ruling poses threat to PHL tuna exports'. BusinessMirror, p. A10.