Philippine Fisheries Development Authority – General Santos Fish Port Complex (PFDA-GSFPC) marked a historic milestone after the first Indonesian vessel, the KM Nelayan 2016-5, docked and unloaded over two metric tons of fresh chilled tuna at the GenSan port on February 1, 2024.
This significant shipment also marked the inaugural import of fresh chilled tuna from the port of Tahuna, Indonesia to the bustling fisheries hub of General Santos City.
The exclusive recipients of the imported products were JFRCO Corporation and Tenpoint Manufacturing Corporation through the Glaukos Trading Corporation. The entire process was a collaborative effort involving meticulous planning, coordination, and support from various stakeholders, spearheaded by the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia – Davao City.
Upon the vessel's arrival, the PFDA-GSFPC management, led by OIC-Port Manager Mr. Paris Uldarico Y. Ayon, and stakeholders warmly welcomed the visiting fisherfolks from Indonesia as they emphasized the shared enthusiasm for this groundbreaking moment.
This successful importation strengthens international ties and opens new avenues for trade and cooperation between Indonesia and General Santos City. The collaborative spirit demonstrated in this endeavor sets a promising precedent for future ventures in the dynamic landscape of global fisheries.
The activity was in accordance with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)’s Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) No. 195, also known as the Rules and Regulations Governing Importation of Fresh/Chilled/Frozen Fish and Fishery/Aquatic Products.
Hence, this activity is in line with the government's intent of adopting a flexible policy towards the attainment of food security, in response to the emerging trends in the trade of fish and other aquatic products in domestic and international markets, and in recognition of the need to ensure food safety on imported fish and fishery/aquatic products.
With this partnership, the General Santos City could further boost the economic activity of tuna in the city.
(Mark Angelo N. Perez – Public Information Division with report and photos from Fritzie R. Leviste – PFDA-GSFPC)