PRO-6 arrests 29 in illegal fishing, logging operations

By Jennifer P. Rendon

ILOILO CITY – Twenty-nine people were arrested as the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) intensified operations against illegal fishing and logging to protect Western Visayas’ natural resources.

The arrests took place during a 24-hour period from 6 a.m. Sept. 6 to 5:59 a.m. Sept. 7.

PRO-6 records showed that 13 operations against illegal fishing resulted in 15 arrests and the confiscation of fishing equipment and other items valued at approximately PHP 1,207,000.

During the same period, police conducted 73 operations against illegal logging, resulting in 14 arrests and the confiscation of forest products and other items with an estimated value of PHP 145,364.

The operations covered areas in Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras and Iloilo as part of continuing enforcement of laws protecting the region’s fisheries and forests.

PRO-6 Regional Director Randulf Tuaño said police would continue working with government agencies, local governments and communities to protect natural resources while ensuring lawful and responsible enforcement.

“Our natural resources are for everyone, including the generations that will come after us. We will continue to enforce the law, but we also want our communities to understand why these efforts matter. Protecting our fisheries and forests is not only a police responsibility—it is something we all have a stake in,” Tuaño said.

PRO-6 reminded the public, particularly those engaged in fishing and forest-related activities, to secure the necessary permits and comply with existing laws and regulations.

The Revised Forestry Code, as amended, prohibits unauthorized cutting or removal of timber and possession of timber or other forest products without the required legal documents.

Police also encouraged residents to report suspected illegal activities to the nearest police station or appropriate government agency and provide information responsibly.