The Philippines is at the center of the Coral Triangle, the epicenter of marine biodiversity in the world and a global priority for conservation. Marine resources such as coral reefs, seaweeds, fisheries and aquatic species live abundantly in the country’s waters. The Philippines is among the top 10 fish-producing countries in the world and the third largest seaweed producer globally. However, according to OneOcean.org, the Philippine aquatic and fisheries industry faces challenges from overfishing, illegal and destructive fishing practices, coastal and habitat degradation, and siltation and pollution.

Dionglay, C. (2023, June 11). Biotech has benefits for PHL aquaculture, fishery industry. BusinessMirror, p. A5.