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Adrian Kenneth Halili - The Philippine Star
April 13, 2026 | 12:00am
The agency reported that deliveries of galunggong to the country’s largest fish port rose to 16,165.52 metric tons this year from 8,161.92 metric tons in March last year.
STAR / File
MANILA, Philippines — Galunggong (round scad) fish deliveries at the Navotas Fishport complex doubled in March due to improving fishing conditions, the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) said.
The agency reported that deliveries of galunggong to the country’s largest fish port rose to 16,165.52 metric tons this year from 8,161.92 metric tons in March last year.
“The March surge underscores the continued vitality of the country’s fisheries sector, which plays a key role in ensuring food supply stability and supporting the livelihoods of fishing communities and industry stakeholders,” the PFDA said.
The agency also said the early start of the El Niño weather event could have affected fish migration patterns and improved catch efficiency.
It added that there were favorable operation conditions in March, resulting in better fishing vessel deployments.
PFDA general manager Glen Pangapalan attributed the increase in galunggong arrivals to improved fishing conditions following a three-month closed fishing season.
“The Navotas Fish Port Complex was able to manage the significantly higher volume smoothly, ensuring proper unloading and distribution across the supply chain,” he added.
For his part, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the implementation of the closed fishing season continues to contribute to the recovery of local fish stocks
“We are now seeing the results in higher and more stable landings,” he said.
The government implemented a three-month fishing ban from Nov. 1, 2025 to Jan. 31, 2026 to replenish the local fish population.
Pangapalan added that continued upgrades to cold storage, logistics and post-harvest facilities are essential to retain higher fishing volumes.
“Strengthening infrastructure will help minimize losses and ensure that increased landings translate into better quality fish and improved returns for stakeholders,” he said.
