Effect of a Seasonal Fishery Closure on Sardine and Mackerel Catch in the Visayan Sea, Philippines

The implementation of seasonal fishery closures (SFC) can be controversial due to the frequent lack clear objectives, monitoring and empirical evidence management success. In Philippines, an SFC implemented for conservation important commodities in Visayan Sea has been ruled a success after stricter this policy 2012. However, comprehensive, detailed, robust analysis is lacking. Using difference-in-differences (DID) framework, we estimated effect on interannual catch sardine mackerel. We expanded our other species not regulated under policy. also conducted semi-structured interviews ( N = 235), focus group discussions 9) key informant 37) involving municipal fisheries stakeholders surrounding municipalities around Sea, representatives from government non-government agencies, complement analyses. Seasonal analyses data show significant increase at end closure among SFC-participating provinces. overall, had no provinces participating SFC. found Furthermore, findings changes fishing pressure aquatic species. Interview results corroborate DID mackerel, but sardine. varying perceptions outcomes attributed several challenges such as implementing guidelines, alternative livelihoods affected stakeholders, persistence illegal fishing, uneven Since objective was conserve species, measures may needed achieve goal. This could entail more consistent enforcement, improved cooperation communication between managers fish size or gear restrictions, identification habitats restore overexploited