PNP Maritime intensifies anti-illegal fishing campaign

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Philippine National Police Maritime Group vowed to sustain relentless operations against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing nationwide as part of ongoing efforts to protect marine ecosystems and support legitimate fishing communities.

The initiative is in line with the government’s broader push for environmental protection and sustainable livelihoods through consistent and visible law enforcement at sea.

The pronouncement came on the heels of seaborne patrol operations by the PNP Maritime Unit in Aklan province in Tangalan, Aklan, on April 15, which led to the interception of five fishing boats.

Authorities said those arrested were allegedly operating without the required permits and local government documents, in violation of Republic Act 8550, or the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, as amended by Republic Act 10654.

Five individuals were taken into custody, while fishing vessels, equipment and catch valued at about PHP 2,156,000 were confiscated and documented for proper disposition.

The boats were found engaged in unauthorized fishing activities within municipal waters.

The first operation was conducted at about 2:12 a.m. and led to the interception of a fishing banca skippered by a 37-year-old resident of Barangay Tabugon, Carles, Iloilo.

Authorities said the skipper and his two crew members were engaged in illegal fishing while using nets and gear in waters without a permit and license from the local government of Tangalan.

Police said this constituted violations of Sections 86 and 95 of Republic Act 8550, as amended by Republic Act 10654.

A review of the amended Fisheries Code shows that Section 95 covers the use of active gear in municipal waters, while the law also penalizes unauthorized fishing and other illegal fishing practices in municipal waters.

At 2:30 a.m., the team arrested another motorized banca skippered by Rodelo, 46, along with his two companions, all from Barangay Tabugon, Carles.

The three other operations were carried out at 2:42 a.m., 2:56 a.m. and 5 a.m.

All were apprehended for allegedly fishing without a permit and license from the Tangalan local government.

In a statement, the PNP said the operations form part of its focused agenda under enhanced police operations management.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. underscored the importance of sustained maritime operations, stressing that the campaign is not only about enforcement but also about safeguarding the country’s future food security.