Fiji, Dec. 2 -- As host of WCPFC22 and a major tuna producer in Asia, the Philippines expects this week's negotiations to deliver firm decisions on conservation, monitoring and the long-delayed harvest strategy for Western and Central Pacific tuna stocks.

Philippines Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther Bayate told the media that the country is honoured to host the meeting of the Tuna Commission (WCPFC), calling it a critical platform for managing "one of the most important marine ecosystems and fisheries resources in the world."

"The Philippines is honoured to host this years meeting of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission or WCPFC," she said.

"It is a regional value mandated to ensure ...