Fisheries in the Philippines consist of both capture fisheries and aquaculture. The Philippines is an archipelagic country with a large coastal population. In many areas, communities rely heavily on fisheries for subsistence and livelihoods. Both capture fisheries and aquaculture occur inland and at sea, producing various fish, shellfish, other invertebrates, and seaweed.
Capture fisheries are divided into municipal fisheries and commercial fisheries. Municipal fisheries are those within 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) of the shore, fished with small boats. They fall under the jurisdiction of local government units (cities and municipalities), and are expected to prioritize local residents. There are more stringent rules on the fishing techniques that can be caught in municipal waters, and the local government is responsible for the sustainable management of its fisheries. Commercial fisheries consist of larger boats fishing in non-municipal national waters or international waters. Commercial fishing vessels are generally not allowed to fish in municipal waters, although local governments can permit commercial fishing in the outer third of their waters at their discretion. The aquaculture sector includes fish, shrimp, and seaweed farms in artificial ponds, inland waters, and nearshore waters.
The fisheries sector employs over 2 million people, creates around 1.5% of GDP, and produces 2% of all global fisheries products. It is an important source of domestic nutrition and a net source of exports. Many fisheries have historically been poorly managed, with overfishing depleting fish populations. Other challenges facing Philippine fisheries include habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Despite government interventions, most fisherfolk remain poor. The growth of commercial fisheries led to competition with municipal fisheries, and despite strong laws, there are implementation and enforcement challenges to prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
Fisheries management is complex, with responsibilities divided between several national agencies alongside local governments. Modern management efforts have aimed to ensure fisheries are sustainable, and prioritize the use of fisheries by local fisherfolk. Common management techniques include closed seasons to protect fish during critical parts of their life cycles, and the establishment of marine protected areas at both national and local levels.