The Philippines is set to import 8,000 metric tons of fish to stabilize supply and prices following the impact of recent typhoons, the Department of Agriculture (DA) confirmed Monday.
Arnel De Mesa, DA spokesperson, said the imports will include galunggong (round scad), mackerel, moonfish, and bonito. He emphasized that the move aims to prevent sudden price surges in local markets.
The shipments are expected to arrive within the first two weeks of December. This comes on top of the agency’s earlier approval for 30,000 metric tons of fish imports, bringing the total planned fish importation to 38,000 metric tons.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions, with critics questioning why local fisheries are not being prioritized for recovery efforts. Some have raised concerns about the potential impact of imports on small-scale Filipino fishermen, who may struggle to compete with the influx of imported fish.
The DA, however, maintained that the importation is a short-term solution to address the urgent need for fish supply after the typhoons severely affected fishing communities.
Consumer groups expressed hope that the move would prevent price hikes, particularly during the holiday season when demand for fish products typically surges.
The agency assured the public that imported fish would comply with health and safety standards before distribution to wet markets nationwide.
