A neophyte lawmaker has introduced a bill aimed at strengthening the Philippines' fisheries sector and protecting its vital marine resources, particularly for local communities.

Pwersa ng Pilipinong Pandagat (PPP) Partylist Rep. Harold Duterte on Thursday filed House Bill 2065, which seeks to establish the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR). This proposed department would replace the existing Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), currently an agency under the Department of Agriculture.

Duterte explained that the measure would "not only streamline the bureaucratic functions related to the fisheries and aquaculture industry, but also empower an independent government agency that will not only conserve, promote, and develop the industry but also champion the rights of the local Filipino fishermen."

The DFAR's primary mandate, he added, would be to regulate, manage, conserve and develop the country’s extensive fisheries and aquatic resources.

This includes archipelagic waters, inland waters, territorial seas and the nation’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Under HB 2065, the state commits to safeguarding the rights of small-scale fishermen, fostering sustainable aquaculture and fisheries development, and supporting private initiatives in fish production, processing and trade.

The proposed department would also oversee blue economy initiatives such as biotechnology, seaweed farming and marine ecosystem preservation.

Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte, one of the bill's co-authors, emphasized the potential impact.

"When passed into law, this measure would ensure food security, uplift the lives of our fisherfolk, and protect our marine ecosystems for future generations," he said.

Another co-author, Davao City 2nd District Rep. Omar Duterte, highlighted the bill's focus on small-scale fishermen.

"It not only intends to protect the rights of small-scale fishermen in the preferential use of communal marine, fisheries, and aquatic resources but would also appropriate technical, financial, entrepreneurial, and other support services to uplift the lives of those dependent in the fish industry," he stated.