THE DEPARTMENT of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture and Aquatic Natural Resources Research and Development, in collaboration with four universities, recently conducted a benchmarking activity in Japan for the project, “Assessing and Accelerating: Towards the Full Implementation of the FAO Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines in the Philippines.”

The event, hosted by Tokai University and Too Big To Ignore Japan, offered insights into Japan’s implementation of SSF guidelines and highlighted lessons and challenges in their execution.

The research project is being implemented by the University of the Philippines Visayas, in collaboration with Batangas State University ARASOF-Nasugbu, Mindanao State University at Naawan, Partido State University, and Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology.

The research team met with key officials from Japan’s Fisheries Agency, as well as representatives from various organizations like the National Association of Fisheries Infrastructure and the National Federation of Fisheries Mutual Aid Associations.

In Shizuoka, the Fisheries Development Division shared the prefectural government’s fisheries programs. Meetings with Fisheries Cooperative Associations provided further understanding of their role in fisheries management and community revitalization.

Tokai University’s School of Marine Science and Technology introduced the research team to its facilities, including the research vessel, Bosei Maru, used for oceanographic studies. The “Girls Who Fish Japan” program also organized an event with lectures on fisheries and gender, along with an art workshop led by Prof. Alice Joan Ferrer.