A coalition of local government officials, civil society organizations, and fisherfolk groups is set to file a petition at the Supreme Court of the Philippines tomorrow, challenging the court’s decision to allow commercial fishing vessels to operate within the 15-kilometer municipal waters traditionally reserved for small-scale fisherfolk.

The mobilization, organized by the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ), Sanlakas, Zone One Tondo Organization (Zoto), Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisang Progresibong Manggagawa (Sentro), and other advocacy groups, will take place outside the Supreme Court on Padre Faura Street in Pasay City at 11:00 am.

Representatives from the Municipality of Sablayan in Mindoro Occidental and the Saraet Small Fishermen Association will join the protest.

Organizers said the petition highlights their opposition to what they see as a ruling that undermines the livelihoods of small-scale fisherfolk and threatens marine biodiversity.

"Restore our fishing grounds, restore our lives!" Members of BARUG Villanueva for Climate Justice and the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice held a fluvial procession near the Steag Power Inc. and FDC Misamis coal-fired power plants on November 20 to mark World Fisheries Day 2024. Joined by the Old Balacanas Fisherfolk Organization, the group highlighted the plight of displaced fishers whose livelihoods were disrupted by the construction of the two power plants in their community. File photo courtesy of PMCJ

“This is our third attempt to appeal to the Supreme Court regarding this matter,” said Sheila Abarra, Senior Media and Communications Officer of PMCJ.

Abarra added that despite their previous filings, they have yet to receive a response from the High Tribunal.

“This has prompted more groups to mobilize and take action,” she said.

Critics argue that the decision to permit commercial fishing in municipal waters goes against provisions in the Philippine Fisheries Code aimed at protecting small-scale fishers and prioritizing their access to coastal resources.

They also warn of the environmental consequences of allowing large-scale fishing operations in these areas.

Advocates are urging the Supreme Court to revisit its ruling, emphasizing that it could have long-term implications on food security and the sustainability of local fishing industries.