Fishing banned in part of Iloilo River for four months

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

For the first time, a stretch of the Iloilo River will be closed to fishing for four months—from Dec. 1 to March 31—to restore fish populations, support local livelihoods, and preserve river biodiversity.

The fishing ban covers a 2.7-kilometer section of the river from Drilon Bridge to Diversion Bridge, according to City Agriculturist Iñigo Garingalao.

The closed fishing season follows an ordinance passed by the 11th City Council in February.

“It is deemed necessary to establish a closed fishing season in the specified section of the Iloilo River to ensure the sustainability of fish resources and the overall health of the aquatic ecosystem,” the ordinance states.

Violators face penalties ranging from a PHP 1,000 fine or community service for a first offense to a PHP 5,000 fine, confiscation of catch and fishing gear and impoundment of fishing boats for a third offense.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources conducted a one-year study on the reproductive patterns of sea bass (Lates calcarifer) in the Iloilo River.

The study found that the December–March period is crucial for the reproduction and growth of sea bass and other aquatic species.

“Our fish must be naturally spawned […] Our main purpose is sustainability. We want to make sure that the beauty that we are enjoying right now will be enjoyed also by the next generations,” Garingalao said.

Executive Assistant for Agriculture Ely Estante, who authored the ordinance while serving as councilor, said the ban aims to sustain marine life and secure food resources for residents.

“Those are just fish, but they are valuable. We need to protect them, let the river breathe, and allow fish to spawn freely. Taking care of our environment is essential, especially for food security,” he said.

Enforcement will be carried out by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Iloilo City Police Office, with barangay tanods in affected areas assisting in monitoring.

Garingalao said around 400 to 500 individuals fish in the river during peak season, many of whom are not Iloilo City residents.