Philippine fisheries scientists have achieved a global first after a mackerel tuna, locally known as “tulingan,” successfully reproduced under fully captive conditions without the use of hormone injections, according to the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center-Aquaculture Department (Seafdec-AQD). The breakthrough was recorded at the Seafdec-AQD’s research facility in Tigbauan town, Iloilo, where “kawakawa” (Euthynnus affinis)—a species long considered nearly impossible to breed in captivity—spawned naturally inside an enclosed tank. In a statement on Jan. 16, Seafdec said the first spawning event was observed in July 2025, with repeated spawning occurring through September.

Villa, H. P. (2026, January 19). PH scientists breed mackerel tuna in captivity in Iloilo. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. A9.