The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the British Embassy Manila have partnered to co-host a global conference in September focused on advancing technology in the seafood and fisheries sectors.

The Seafood and Fisheries Emerging Technologies Conference, known as SAFET 2026, will take place from Sept. 8 to 10 in Cebu.

The event will combine expertise from the United Kingdom’s Marine Management Organisation and the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science with local operational experience from the Philippines.

Discussions will focus on sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, responsible seafood sourcing, blue finance for marine protected areas, and emerging opportunities in marine energy.

Organizers said the partnership underscores a shared commitment between the Philippines and the U.K. to address challenges facing the Indo-Pacific fisheries sector.

"SAFET 2026 reflects the Philippines’ commitment to building a modern fisheries sector where technology directly benefits both people and the environment," BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig said.

He added that the collaboration aims to accelerate innovations that strengthen governance, improve seafood traceability, and create better opportunities for coastal communities.

The conference theme, "From Innovation to Implementation: Powering Responsible Fisheries, Markets, and Livelihoods," highlights the Philippine fisheries sector's ongoing transition from manual processes to a digital ecosystem.

BFAR is currently deploying tools like the Electronic Catch Documentation and Traceability System and the Fisheries Integrated Information Management Center-Vessel Monitoring System.

Officials said the integration of artificial intelligence, satellite observation, and internet-of-things-enabled monitoring is aimed at combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing while ensuring local seafood meets international trade standards.

"The challenges facing global fisheries require stronger partnerships and smarter solutions," said Drusila Esther Bayate, the Philippine agriculture undersecretary for fisheries. She noted that the conference provides a platform for governments, scientists, technology innovators, and fishing communities to turn new technologies into practical actions.

Inga Wise, the executive director of SAFET, emphasized the importance of breaking down silos to solve ocean challenges.

"The SAFET Conference is a unique convergence point where market-driven technology meets government initiative," Wise said. "By bringing global tech innovators to the table alongside fisheries authorities, we are fostering the exact partnerships needed to build transparent, resilient seafood supply chains."