Fishing boat seized off San Dionisio over alleged ring-net violation

ILOILO CITY — A fishing boat allegedly using prohibited ring-net gear in municipal waters was intercepted by provincial authorities off San Dionisio early Wednesday, Oct. 21, with the vessel, fishing equipment, and catch valued at PHP 222,500 seized.

The Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force apprehended F/B MRM at about 4:45 a.m., approximately 288 meters from the shoreline of Sitio Buraay in Barangay Tiabas.

Authorities identified the boat captain as Jerry Hepolito Ramos, 56, a resident of Sitio Gamot in the same barangay.

In a joint statement, the Iloilo provincial government and the Iloilo Police Provincial Office said the vessel was allegedly engaged in ring-net fishing, locally known as “sensuro,” within municipal waters.

The patrol team, led by Police Chief Master Sgt. Ariel Palmera of the 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company, spotted the vessel during maritime surveillance.

Operatives approached the boat, identified themselves as law enforcement officers, and ordered the crew to stop fishing and haul in the net.

Authorities seized the motorized fishing boat, which was powered by a Mitsubishi diesel engine and valued at PHP 150,000.

They also seized a complete ring-net set worth PHP 70,000 and half a tub of anchovies, locally called “lobo-lobo,” valued at PHP 2,500.

Ramos was informed of the reason for his arrest and his constitutional rights before he was taken to the San Dionisio Municipal Police Station for booking and proper disposition.

The seized vessel and fishing gear remain in the task force’s custody pending the filing of appropriate charges for alleged violations of fisheries laws.

Ring nets are classified as active fishing gear under Fisheries Administrative Order No. 201.

Section 95 of the amended Philippine Fisheries Code prohibits the use of active fishing gear in municipal waters, bays, and other fishery management areas.

The operation involved personnel from the 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company and Regional Intelligence Unit 6 aboard Iloilo Provincial Patrol Speedboat No. 1.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of Police Lt. Col. Neil Gumana, commander of the 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company.

The provincial government said the operation was part of Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.’s campaign against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in the Visayan Sea.

Provincial Administrator Raul Banias oversees the task force’s operations, including logistical support for maritime patrols in northern Iloilo.

Authorities said enforcement operations would continue to curb prohibited fishing activities in municipal waters and protect marine resources and the livelihoods of small-scale fisherfolk.