The representative from the SEAFDEC Training Department Mr. Santiphong Putsa, Fishing Gear Technologist, participated in the Third Asia Regional Task Force Workshop of the RegLitter Project, held from 8 to 12 December 2025 in Kochi, India.
The workshop was jointly organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries, India, and the Directorate General of Shipping, India. It brought together international experts, national coordinators, government officials, researchers, and representatives from relevant organizations to share knowledge and experiences, strengthen coordination, and enhance capacity and awareness in addressing sea-based sources of marine plastic litter from the shipping and fisheries sectors.
The event provided a valuable platform for exchanging insights and fostering cooperation between maritime and fisheries administrations from seven (7) participating countries, namely India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, Thailand, and Viet Nam.
During the workshop, SEAFDEC delivered a presentation entitled “Tackling ALDFG, Marine Debris, and the Promotion of Fishing Gear Marking in Southeast Asia.” The presentation outlined the regional policy framework supporting marine debris and Abandoned, Lost, or Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG) mitigation, and highlighted SEAFDEC’s key initiatives to address marine debris and ALDFG in Southeast Asia.
In conclusion, SEAFDEC emphasized its strong commitment to supporting ASEAN Member States in addressing marine debris and ALDFG through research, capacity building, innovation, and regional collaboration, while continuing to work closely with partners to promote responsible fishing practices and ensure the sustainability of the marine environment.
