Taking into account the recommendations from fisheries stakeholders and some lawmakers, the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) is declaring a moratorium in its operations in wet markets with regard to the presence of diverted imported pink salmon, pompano, and other imported frozen fish products, effective immediately.
Momentarily, the Bureau shall revisit the regulations and policies governing importation of fresh/chilled/frozen fish and fishery/aquatic products, particularly the Fisheries Administrative Order No. 195 series of 1999, which authorizes the importation of these products for the purpose of canning and processing, and trade to institutional buyers.
In the interest of the Filipino consumers and fisheries stakeholders, the Bureau remains committed in carrying out its mandate to ensure food security and food sufficiency, especially that the Christmas season is fast approaching, while strengthening the implementation of fishery laws and other necessary regulations.