Impact of the closed fishing season policy for sardines in Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines

Abstract The closed fishing season policy was imposed on sardines in the Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines for December 1 to March 1, to allow for a more productive spawning season and address the declining fish catch. Policy inputs were the resources for monitoring compliance to the policy and information campaign to elicit community and other stakeholders’ support. Expected policy output was the increase in fish stock while expected policy impacts included increase in landed catch, decline in incomes of factory workers, increase in incomes of fishers and increase in societal benefits. Primary and secondary data were gathered to analyze impacts in the various sectors. Secondary data came from government sources, canneries and the bottling companies. Primary data were gathered through household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions with various stakeholders. The social welfare analysis integrated the study results. Results showed an increase in landed catch of sardines after the policy implementation. There was also increase in catch of high value non-sardine species. Incomes of fishing crew increased. Factory wages declined during the months of December to February, although working hours and days increased during open season. Factory workers found alternative livelihoods during the closed season. There was positive impact to society overall. The authors recommend that closed season policy in the Zamboanga Peninsula be continued.