In line with the implementation of a Monitoring Control and Surveillance System under RA 8550 as amended by RA 10654 to ensure rational and sustainable development, management, and conservation of marine and aquatic resources, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) established an Integrated Operational Fisheries Monitoring Center in the Philippines to monitor fishing vessels and strengthen the MCS Program to combat IUU fishing.

BFAR Regional Office 5 Regional Director Ariel U. Pioquinto, officially received the Regional Fisheries Monitoring Center located at PFDA Compound, Zone 4, Bulan, Sorsogon on July 14, 2023. The Regional Bureau will fully operate the center.

During the turnover and inauguration ceremony of the Center, Atty. Demosthenes R. Escoto representative, PFDA OIC-Manager Rommel G Dreu, Philippine Coast Guard Representative PO1 Eric G. Geronga, and LGU Representative Recto Valeriano provided messages.

After a short program conducted at El Jarden Resto Bar, all guests and facilitators proceeded to the RFMC to officially receive the Center by cutting the ribbon and giving a blessing, which was initiated by Rev. Fr. Wilson Bryan T. Estuge. Thereafter, a short orientation inside the center, including system functions and actual viewing of fishing operations of certain fishing vessels, was conducted. In this center, all commercial fishing vessels will be monitored in real-time.

The center is operated by six (6) RFMC Operators on a shifting basis under the supervision of Joy Casin-Balcueva, RFMC Supervisor, and Junalin Barcellano, RFMC Director.