Ecosystems Improved for Sustainable Fisheries (ECOFISH) Project

The project is supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under Contract No. AID-492-C-12-00008 and managed by Tetra Tech ARD. The project's primary objective is to improve ecosystems for sustainable fisheries in the Philippines. To achieve this goal, the project focuses on three key areas: enhancing fisheries management, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and improving the livelihoods of fishers and their communities. The project's scope encompasses eight sites across the country, including the Calamianes Island Group, Danajon Reef, Lingayen Gulf, San Bernardino – Ticao – Lagonoy Gulf, Southern Negros, Surigao del Norte and del Sur, Sulu Archipelago, and Verde Island Passage. Implementation of the project began in April 2014, with a focus on conducting assessments, establishing demonstration plots, and providing training to fishers and local government officials. The project also aims to enhance the capacity of local government units to manage fisheries resources and promote sustainable fishing practices. Key activities include the establishment of marine protected areas, the implementation of fisheries management plans, and the promotion of eco-tourism. The project has achieved several important accomplishments, including the establishment of marine protected areas, the implementation of fisheries management plans, and the promotion of sustainable fishing practices. At the national level, the project has contributed to the development of policies and guidelines for sustainable fisheries management. At the site level, the project has achieved significant results, including the establishment of demonstration plots, the provision of training to fishers and local government officials, and the promotion of eco-tourism. Despite the progress made, the project still faces several priority implementation issues, including the need to enhance the capacity of local government units to manage fisheries resources, the need to promote sustainable fishing practices among fishers, and the need to address the impacts of climate change on fisheries resources. To address these issues, the project has developed a schedule of upcoming important activities, including the conduct of training programs, the establishment of demonstration plots, and the promotion of eco-tourism. The project's success is dependent on the collaboration and coordination among various stakeholders, including local government units, fishers, and other project partners. The project's achievements and challenges will be closely monitored and evaluated to ensure that the project's objectives are met and that the project's impact is maximized.