The Department of Agriculture–National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) and the DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), gathered fisheries experts, project leaders, analysts, and key stakeholders for the “National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP) Mid-Year Review, Consolidation, and Analysis” held on June 24–26, 2025, in Quezon City.

The three-day event focused on consolidating and analyzing data on priority species from the country’s 12 Fisheries Management Areas (FMAs). NSAP BFAR FMA lead regions presented consolidated findings on key species, including sardines, shortfin scad, mackerel, big-eye scad, flying fish, and anchovy.

In her welcome remarks, NFRDI-Capture Fisheries Research and Development Division (CFRDD) Chief Elsa Furio emphasized the importance of transforming raw data into information that can be used in building a network for sustainable fisheries.

NFRDI Officer-in-Charge Dr. Maria Theresa Mutia underscored the importance of updated and consolidated catch data per FMA. She emphasized its relevance in formulating reference points and harvest control rules for deliberation by the Scientific Advisory Groups and Management Boards in each FMA.

NSAP BFAR FMA lead regions presented consolidated findings on key species, including sardines, shortfin scad, mackerel, big-eye scad, flying fish, and anchovy.

Fisheries experts Dr. Elviro Cinco, Gerry Silvestre, and Len Garces, provided scientific guidance to enhance data analysis and interpretation, particularly on determining sustainable catch levels for both commercial and municipal fisheries.

Key officials from NFRDI, BFAR Central Office, and regional field units were also in attendance, providing support and insights on the workshop’s significance in strengthening science-based fisheries management.

To ensure consistency in outputs and facilitate seamless national-level consolidation, NFRDI standardized all workshop results. Meanwhile, CFRDD Assistant Division Chief Eunice Bognot commended the hard work and dedication of the participants during the closing program. ### (Norvida Gatdula)