Period: 3-5 months  
Reports to: WWF-Philippines MS SETB Team 
Location: Occidental Mindoro 

WWF-Philippines has been at the forefront of implementing Fishery Improvement Projects (FIPs)  in key areas like Lagonoy Gulf and Mindoro Strait since 2011, with the goal of ensuring sustainable tuna fisheries while uplifting the welfare of small-scale handline fishers. These initiatives have led to the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Certification of these fisheries,  making them the first in the country to attain this prestigious accreditation for environmental sustainability. 

With the growing consumer demand for sustainably sourced seafood, it is essential to ensure that fisheries continue to meet MSC requirements. To support this, WWF-Philippines seeks to engage a consultant to initially review and assess the compliance of proposed additional vessels to the  Unit of Certification (UoC) with MSC standards. 

• Conduct a detailed gap analysis on the proposed additional vessels to the UoC with the MSC Client Group’s Conformity Assessment Body (CAB).
• Identify gaps and lead consolidation of important requirements such as logbook data, vessel and fisher registration, licensing requirements, and other MSC open conditions.
• Provide strategic recommendations to bridge these gaps in accordance with the Client Action Plan.
• Collaborate with WWF-Philippines, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), local government units (LGUs), and other stakeholders to facilitate assessment on compliance. 

WWF-Philippines will: 

• Review and approve the consultancy’s outputs. 
• Conduct initial briefing sessions. 
• Assign staff to support coordination needs. 
• Engage in the review and analysis of the results to ensure alignment with sustainability goals. 

• Develop a work and financial plan for approval, detailing specific activities, budget, and timelines with the CAB. 
• Conduct a gap analysis on the proposed additional vessels, focusing on logbook data, licenses, and vessel registration with the CAB.
• Assist in engaging with fishers, vessel operators, and relevant stakeholders to ensure the analysis reflects real conditions
• Provide capacity-building recommendations to address identified gaps in compliance. 

The consultant will be responsible for submitting the following: 

1. Inception Report - Outline methodologies, tools, and timeline for conducting the gap analysis. 
2. Final Gap Analysis Report - Detailed findings with strategic recommendations to address identified gaps. 

• Strong understanding of MSC standards and compliance requirements.
• Proven experience in working with local communities and conducting fieldwork.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Familiarity with data collection and analysis methodologies. 

WWF-Philippines is an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply regardless of race, gender, or disability. Submissions by mail are not accepted. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. 

Interested candidates should email their applications to mmelorijk@wwf.org.ph on or before December 31, 2024. 

Required Documents for Bid 

• Letter of Interest addressed to Project Manager, Ms. Melody Melo-Rijk.
• Technical proposal. 
• Detailed process, timeframe, and budget quote. 
• Company profile, Curriculum Vitae of lead consultant and key personnel.
• BIR Registration, SEC/ DTI registration, relevant business permit, and copy of Official Receipt/ Invoice. 
• At least two recent consultancy contracts.