BFAR Administrative Circular No. 252: Series of 2014. Rules and regulations governing distant-water fishing by Philippine-flagged fishing vessels.

This Administrative Order, consisting of seven Sections, establishes Rules and Regulations Governing High-Sea Fishing by Philippine-Flagged Fishing Vessels. The Department of Agriculture, through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), establishes the following rules and regulations on fishing in the high seas areas managed by Regional Fisheries Organizations. This Circular covers all Philippine-flagged fishing vessels, regardless of type, engaged in High-Sea Fishing. Fishing vessels of Philippine registry with valid Commercial Fishing Vessel License may engage in distant water fishing provided that the fishing vessel: is registered with the RFMO or the Coastal State that allows fishing by foreign-flagged fishing vessels; complies with the rules and regulations of the RFMO which has jurisdiction over the high seas pocket or the Coastal State; complies with the safety, manning and other requirements of MARINA and other requirements of concerned agencies; has an International Fishing Permit (IFP) Special Fishing Permit (SFP), Certificate of Clearance from the Bureau of license or authorization from the Coastal State and that the fish caught by such vessels shall be considered as caught in Philippine waters and are not subject to all import duties and taxes only when the same are landed in duly designated fish landings and fish ports in the Philippines. The International Fishing Permit (IFP) and Special Fishing Permit shall be issued by the BFAR National Director. The IFP shall be valid for a period of 3 years starting from the date of payment of permit fees unless suspended, revoked, terminated or cancelled sooner for cause.