The government is seeking to resolve overlapping jurisdictions in the management of marine resources, according to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev). BusinessWorld reported that the unified Philippine Blue Economy Framework will align agency mandates, jurisdictions, and initiatives.
Economy Undersecretary for Legislative Affairs Glenda R. Rumohr said that the harder part is that each agency has been stewarding pieces of the marine resource management puzzle. The framework aims to streamline efforts and reduce conflicts among various government bodies.
The initiative reflects a broader push to improve governance of the Philippines' rich marine resources, which are critical for food security, livelihoods, and the blue economy. No timeline for the full implementation of the framework was provided.