The Philippine Fisheries Development Authority reports a significant increase in galunggong (round scad) landings at Navotas Fish Port Complex due to effective fishing policies and environmental factors.
The galunggong (round scad) catch at the Navotas Fish Port Complex nearly doubled in March 2026 compared to the same month in 2025, reaching 16,165.52 metric tons (MT) from 8,161.92 MT, according to the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA). The PFDA attributes this notable rise to the effective enforcement of the annual three-month fishing ban from November 1 to January 31, which has supported the recovery of fish stocks over the past decade. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. acknowledged that the long-term closed fishing season policy has led to higher and more stable fish landings. Moreover, environmental conditions, such as the early arrival of El Niño, appear to have influenced the migration patterns of fish, making schools more accessible to fishers. Of the total galunggong catch, shortfin scad accounted for 9,731.68 MT, while bigeye scad comprised 6,433.84 MT. PFDA General Manager Glen Pangapalan emphasized the importance of strengthening fisheries infrastructure to reduce losses and ensure that increased catches result in higher quality fish and improved earnings for stakeholders. The peak season for galunggong is projected to continue until the end of July 2026.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/983575/navotas-galunggong-catch-nearly-doubles-to-16-000-mt-in-march/story/
