Manila, Sept. 3 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) has vowed stronger support for fisherfolk and called on the tuna industry to unite, look beyond profits, and embrace its role as stewards of the seas.

Speaking at the 25th National Tuna Congress in General Santos City on Wednesday, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the sector's global gains must be matched with a deeper commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth.

"True progress is shared progress. It happens only when all players in the value chain - fishers, canners, exporters, and regulators - move as one," he said, noting that fisherfolk are not just workers but front-line defenders of the country's marine future.

Tiu Laurel also pushed for science-based ...