The Philippines is turning to Danish fishing technology to help unlock new fishery resources, boost domestic fish supply, and strengthen food security through a pilot program that will test advanced offshore harvesting systems in local waters.

The Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Danish Fishing Technology Cluster recently signed a partnership agreement that will introduce Danish pelagic midwater trawl technology to the Philippine fishing sector.

The initiative is expected to improve the efficiency of offshore fishing operations while promoting sustainable harvesting practices.

Balancing act

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the project aims to balance higher fish production with responsible resource management.

“This project is about applying technology and science to unlock the full potential of our fisheries resources. We want to improve fish production, strengthen food security, and ensure that growth in the sector is supported by responsible and sustainable resource management.”

The collaboration marks a new chapter in fisheries cooperation between the Philippines and Denmark as the two countries commemorate 80 years of diplomatic relations.

It also builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in 2019 between BFAR and the Danish Fishing Technology Cluster, which paved the way for years of technical discussions and planning.