Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Tuesday its ongoing consideration of an additional importation of 8,000 metric tons (MT) of small pelagic fish to counteract the impact of consecutive typhoons on the country's fisheries. DA Assistant Secretary Arnel De Mesa highlighted in an interview that this measure aims to stabilize the market prices of various small pelagic fish, such as galunggong, bonito, moonfish, and mackerel. According to Philippines News Agency, the DA-Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRM) reported that Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, Typhoon Leon, Typhoon Nika, and Super Typhoon Ofel have collectively resulted in an estimated loss of 1,781.71 metric tons of fish, valued at PHP666.72 million. These weather events have severely affected 6,082 fishers in the hardest-hit regions, even prior to the arrival of Super Typhoon Pepito. The proposed importation would supplement the 30,000 MT already approved for the closed fishing season. De Mesa noted, "Compared to la st year, napakababa ng in-allow na importation ng isda ngayong taon. So kayang maidagdag iyong 8,000. Dati kasi umaabot tayo ng 60,000 metric tons," indicating that the current year's approved importation is significantly lower, allowing room for the proposed increase. If the proposal is approved, the DA aims for the additional fish imports to arrive in the first two weeks of December. This timing is strategic to ensure price stability during the holiday season, providing relief and support to both consumers and the affected fishing communities.