The government has finally released its policy on a vessel monitoring mechanism that aims to put a stop to the continued increase in cases of illegal commercial fishing within municipal waters. The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) has signed Fisheries Administrative Order 260 which states the rules and regulations on the implementation of vessel monitoring measures (VMM) and electronic reporting system (ERS) for commercial Philippine fishing vessels. The order aims to enhance monitoring operations and law enforcement, to aid in seafood traceability and catch documentary requirements of the government and to ensure safety of fishermen.

Simeon, L. M. (2018, October 15). Gov't releases policy on vessel monitoring mechanism. The Philippine Star, p. B18.