Roman Pushes Blue Economy and Finance Legislative Package

Bataan 1^st District Representative Tony Roman III has filed a comprehensive Blue Economy and Finance Legislative Package aimed at strengthening the country’s fisheries sector and uplifting the livelihood of small-scale fisherfolk. The proposed measures seek to improve access to financing, promote sustainability, and maximize the economic potential of the country’s marine resources.

Among the bills included in the package is the Blue Finance for Small-Scale Fisherfolk Act, which earmarks ₱1 billion for loans, training, and cold storage facilities. The Fisheries Asset Collateralization Act recognizes fishing boats, gear, and catch as acceptable collateral for loans, while the Fisheries Financing Empowerment Act mandates the LandBank to allocate 5% of its loan portfolio to a specialized Fisheries Financing Unit.

The package also includes the DBP Blue Finance Infrastructure Amendment Act, which will provide funding for ports, cold storage facilities, aquaculture development, and coastal energy projects. Serving as the centerpiece of the package, the Blue Economy Act establishes a national framework for sustainable marine resource management and creates a Blue Economy Council to oversee implementation.

Rep. Roman emphasized that the initiative is designed not only to boost the resilience of fisherfolk but also to ensure long-term food security and marine sustainability. “The goal is to make financing more accessible, strengthen livelihoods, and promote the responsible use of our marine resources for the benefit of future generations,” he said.