Manila: The local government of Agno town, Pangasinan, has started the process of crafting its Municipal Fishery Code. In an interview on Tuesday, Mayor John Celeste emphasized that this initiative is among his top priorities since assuming office last year in his first term.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Celeste highlighted the issue of illegal fishing activities in the town, including allegations of dynamite fishing. In the absence of a fishery code, there was no legal framework for imposing sanctions or fines. The establishment of a fishery code, aligned with the Philippine Fisheries Code, is crucial for empowering the local government to manage Agno's municipal waters, which extend up to 15 kilometers from the coastline. The code aims to reserve these fishing zones exclusively for local fisherfolk, prevent overfishing, protect marine habitats, and ensure food security for coastal communities.

Mayor Celeste also mentioned the formation of the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council, which is part of the requirements for developing the fishery code. The council will provide valuable inputs to aid in the process. The local government aims to complete the fishery code by the end of the year.

Furthermore, in response to economic challenges, the local government of Agno has provided financial assistance totaling nearly PHP1.8 million to 773 local fisherfolk. Additionally, a fuel subsidy has been extended to 158 fisherfolk with boats to alleviate the impact of rising fuel prices. In support of agriculture, 1,031 rice farmers have received fertilizers, and 238 have been supplied with hybrid rice seeds.