Five staff members from the SEAFDEC Training Department (SEAFDEC/TD) involved in the combating IUU fishing project participated in the SAFET Conference 2026, themed “From Innovation to Implementation: Powering Responsible Fisheries, Markets, and Livelihoods,” held from 8 to 10 September 2026 in Cebu, Philippines. During the conference, Mr. Kongpathai Saraphaivanich, a representative from SEAFDEC/TD, was invited to serve as a panelist in the side event “Bridging the Fisheries Technology Divide” during the session “Emerging Technologies Advancing Regional Cooperation and Solidarity in Southeast Asia Fisheries Management” on 9 September 2026. The side event brought together government fisheries representatives and technology experts to explore how emerging technologies can support stronger regional cooperation across Southeast Asia. The session addressed regional priorities for technology adoption alongside practical case studies in areas such as fisheries monitoring, traceability, and data management. Discussions focused on how technology can strengthen cross-border cooperation, improve market access, and empower coastal and small-scale fishing communities.
The SAFET Conference 2026 brought together over 300 global leaders from government, industry, NGOs, fishing communities, technology providers, and the scientific community. Through interactive panels, roundtables, fireside chats, and real-world technology demonstrations, participants explored practical challenges facing practitioners while discovering proven, cutting-edge tech solutions for sustainable fisheries. The conference emphasized deep, interactive networking and post-event engagement to spark collaborations that shape future projects, partnerships, and field practices.
