Capiz Passes Law Regulating Commercial Fishing

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — An ordinance regulating commercial fishing in the seawaters of Capiz was approved on Monday, March 17, during the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

The ordinance was authored by Vice Gov. James Mitang Magbanua and co-authored by Board Member Cecelio Fecundo, following recommendations from the Capiz Provincial Bantay Dagat and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR-Capiz).

Fecundo said the ordinance was drafted in line with Republic Act 10654, amending the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 (RA 8550).

The law mandates local government units to protect marine natural resources.

It also seeks to give small-scale fishermen greater access to the province’s marine resources.

A copy of the ordinance has been forwarded to the office of Capiz Gov. Fredenil Castro for signature.