Davao City Agriculturist Office Launches Mobile Registration Services for Fishing Licenses and Boat Certifications
In a significant move to enhance accessibility for local fisherfolk, the Davao City Agriculturist Office (CAgrO) has initiated a comprehensive barangay-based registration program for fishing licenses and boat certifications. This innovative approach, which commenced in February 2026, aims to streamline compliance with the city's comprehensive fishing ordinance by bringing essential services directly to community centers.
Streamlining Compliance Through Onsite Services
According to Aimee C. Evora, Senior Aquaculturist and Acting Head of the Fishery Resources Management Services Division at CAgrO, the initiative responds to the mandatory requirements under Davao City's fishing regulations. "We are conducting onsite fishing license and boat registration certification applications. Based on our comprehensive fishing ordinance in Davao City, fisherfolk are required to obtain a fishing license and register their boats. To make it easier to obtain permits, we will go to the barangays ourselves to expedite the process," Evora explained during the ISpeak Media forum held on January 29, 2026.
The program builds upon previous efforts, with CAgrO having issued 1,611 fishing licenses and 998 boat registrations in 2025. Fisherfolk participating in the mobile registration need only bring their cedula, complete the necessary forms, and present any previous licenses. The fees remain affordable, with fishing licenses priced at P50, while boat registration costs P50 for non-powered vessels and P70 for motorized boats.
Comprehensive Barangay Schedule and Multi-Agency Collaboration
The registration schedule spans multiple barangays throughout February and March 2026, ensuring widespread coverage across Davao City. The initial phase included:
- February 2 at Barangay 23C Hall
- February 4 at Barangay 76A Purok 2
- February 5 at 76A Dapsa
- February 6 at 76A Malamboon
Subsequent dates feature locations such as Sirawan Purok 11 on February 10, Sitio Lawis in Lizada on February 11, and Lizada Beach, Kawarayan on February 12. The schedule continues through late March, with stops including Talomo Semento on March 3, Barangay Sasa on March 5, and Binugao on March 18.
This initiative represents a collaborative effort, with the PNP Maritime, Philippine Coast Guard, Department of Agriculture-Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA), and Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) joining the onsite registration. This multi-agency approach enables fisherfolk to simultaneously secure fishing vessel clearances and apply for insurance coverage, providing comprehensive support in a single visit.
Encouraging Participation for Sustainable Fisheries
Evora strongly encouraged fisherfolk to participate in the onsite registration to avoid penalties and protect their livelihoods. "We just want to encourage our fisherfolk to join our onsite fishing license and boat registration. Let's not wait to be caught without licenses because there are corresponding penalties for that. So, I really encourage them to join the onsite registration," she emphasized.
This proactive measure not only facilitates regulatory compliance but also supports the long-term sustainability of Davao City's fishery resources. By making licensing more accessible, the city aims to foster responsible fishing practices while ensuring that fisherfolk can continue their vital economic activities without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
