Globally recognized fisheries scientist Dr. Jeremy Prince, an Australian fisheries expert known internationally for pioneering practical stock assessment approaches for data-limited fisheries and advising governments on sustainable fisheries management, led a specialized training for the staff of the Capture Fisheries Research and Development Division (CFRDD) of the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) and National Stock Assessment Program (NSAP) regional technical teams. The training aimed to equip participants with the Length-Based Spawning Potential Ratio (LBSPR) method and the “Barefoot Ecologist’s Toolbox.” The four-day activity was held from March 23 to 26 in Quezon City.

The LBSPR method is a modern stock assessment tool that uses fish length data to estimate the Spawning Potential Ratio (SPR), or the ability of a fish population to reproduce and sustain itself under fishing pressure. It is especially valuable in areas where age and long-term biological data are limited, making it a practical and cost-effective approach for developing countries and small-scale fisheries. By identifying whether fish stocks remain healthy or are at risk of overfishing, LBSPR helps guide timely and science-based management decisions.

Meanwhile, the “Barefoot Ecologist’s Toolbox” is a collection of simple, field-tested methods designed to help fisheries managers and researchers assess fish stocks and ecosystems using readily available data. It emphasizes practical solutions for real-world fisheries management, particularly in data-poor environments where sophisticated models may not be feasible. The toolbox enables scientists to turn basic observations into actionable recommendations for conservation and resource management.

Drawing from Dr. Prince’s expertise in data-limited fisheries management, NSAP teams strengthened their capacity to apply these tools in assessing critical fishery indicators, including the 20 percent SPR benchmark commonly used to signal stock stability. The training also introduced efficient length-based approaches that complement or replace more complex age-based assessment models.

The training was funded under the FISHCORE Project of NFRDI, specifically Subcomponent FishCRRM 1.1 (Strengthening NSAP Project).

Through this initiative, Fisheries Management Areas (FMAs) are better equipped to recommend science-based, high-impact measures such as minimum size limits through mesh-size regulations and gear-specific improvements. These tools are particularly useful for managing data-poor species such as anchovies and gobies, helping secure the long-term sustainability of the country’s marine resources. ### (Nicko Amor Flores)