12 arrested for illegal ‘baklad’ fishing in Capiz

PANAY, Capiz — Twelve individuals, including two boat captains, were arrested in two separate operations after allegedly being caught engaging in illegal fishing activities locally known as “baklad” in the waters off Panay, Capiz, early Wednesday morning, Oct. 14.

Police identified the boat captains as Joe Viente Denosta, 70, and Jomar Casipit, 44, along with 10 crew members, all residents of Barangay Rosario, Pilar, Capiz.

Authorities confiscated two fishing boats valued at PHP 400,000; six diesel engines worth PHP 200,000; one complete set of fishing nets worth PHP 200,000; and 10 kilograms of assorted fish valued at PHP 2,000.

The total estimated value of the confiscated items was PHP 802,000.

The arrested individuals and confiscated items were turned over to the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) of Panay for proper disposition and the filing of appropriate charges for alleged violations of Municipal Ordinance No. 03-02, Series of 2003.

Baklad fishing is a traditional Filipino fishing method that uses stationary fish corrals or traps installed in shallow coastal waters.

These structures are typically built using rows of bamboo poles, split bamboo matting, wire mesh or plastic nets secured to the seabed.

While baklad is a traditional fishing method, its operation is subject to local fisheries regulations, including permit requirements and restrictions intended to protect marine resources.