40% of fish caught in Samar Sea is wasted

The Samar Sea has long supported coastal communities in Northern Samar and Samar provinces through fishing, a vital way of life for locals. However, a new study from Oceana highlights a concerning issue: up to 40 percent of the fish caught in these waters never reach consumers. This problem, known as postharvest fish loss (PHFL), results from spoilage, poor handling, and market inefficiencies. It impacts local fishers' incomes and threatens food security in some of the poorest regions of the Philippines. The study reveals that, on average, postharvest fish loss reaches 38.39 percent in municipalities near the San Bernardino Strait and 40.34 percent in areas around Samar Bays. Sardines, anchovies, and slipmouth are often wasted, which is alarming for populations already facing food insecurity. Many communities in Northern Samar and Samar have high rates of malnutrition, despite the abundance of local fish. This issue is not unique to the Samar Sea; postharvest losses in the Philippines have plagued the fishing industry for years. In 2022, a study found that the country loses up to 40 percent of its total fish output due to similar problems. Despite efforts like the Community Fish Landing Centers designed to improve storage and marketing, many remain underused and ineffective. Oceana officials stress that fixing postharvest fish loss could significantly improve food access and nutrition in these areas. They suggest a focused approach that includes improved handling practices, better storage facilities, and organized marketing systems. Investments in cold storage and refurbishing existing facilities are crucial. Daram, a municipality in Samar, has implemented a promising plan to reduce postharvest losses from 40 percent to 10 percent. The initiative aims to enhance fish handling, processing, and storage, which could have a positive impact on 9,293 residents across ten coastal villages. As the crisis continues, the recommendation from Oceana is clear: a comprehensive, systematic approach is necessary. The government needs to act decisively to prevent further losses and secure the future of local fisheries. Without intervention, both fishers and consumers will continue to face significant challenges.