The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and allied agencies are finalizing plans to suspend all fishing and caning operations in Zamboanga and nearby islands and provinces. BFAR Regional Director Ahadulla Sajli announced on Tuesday that the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the BFAR have agreed to maintain the closed season for the fishing of sardines or "tamban" from December 1, 2012 to March 1, 2013. Last year the BFAR wanted to imposed the three months' closed season for fishing from November to February but was prevailed upon to move the closed season to December last year to March 1 this year.

BFAR plans closed fishing season. (2012, September 21). Manila Bulletin, p. 16.