The Department of the Interior and Local Government – National Capital Region (DILG-NCR), through the Manila Bay Clean-up, Rehabilitation, and Preservation Program – Program Management Team (MBCRPP-PMT), successfully conducted the Fisheries Compliance Audit (FishCA) Orientation with the Regional Validation Team (RVT) and Manila Bay Coastal Local Government Units (LGUs) in the National Capital Region, namely, Las Pinas, Manila, Paranaque, Pasay, and Navotas, on February 24, 2026, via Zoom Conferencing.

The activity aimed to orient participants on the guidelines, indicators, and timeline of the 2025 Fisheries Compliance Audit (FishCA); guide LGUs in the proper and timely submission of complete Means of Verification (MOVs) and preparation for the table assessment and onsite inspection; and clarify audit parameters to support the effective implementation and continuous enhancement of the FishCA Validation Tool.

The program formally commenced with the Opening Remarks delivered by LGOO VI Marlon Clyde S. Camilon, Assistant Division Chief of the Local Government Monitoring and Evaluation Division (LGMED). In his message, he welcomed the participants and expressed appreciation for their sustained cooperation and steadfast commitment to strengthening compliance with fisheries laws and advancing coastal resource management initiatives within the region.

During the orientation, the MBCRPP-PMT presented the 2025 FishCA Regional Validation Tool, which highlights key indicators covering the enactment and implementation of fisheries-related ordinances, delineation and adoption of municipal waters, formulation and implementation of Coastal Resource Management (CRM) plans, establishment of enforcement mechanisms, and promotion of inter-LGU collaboration. The tool serves as a strategic mechanism to reinforce adherence to fisheries laws, enhance local governance systems, and institutionalize sustainable coastal resource management practices.

DILG-NCR reaffirmed its commitment to continuously provide technical assistance, facilitate inter-agency coordination, and support capacity development initiatives to further strengthen LGU performance. Through the 2025 FishCA, the Department aims to advance accountable and responsive fisheries governance and contribute meaningfully to the sustained rehabilitation, protection, and preservation of Manila Bay.