PRO-6 seizes PHP 10 million in fishing crackdown

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Police Regional Office 6 seized more than PHP 10 million worth of fishing equipment and vessels during an intensified campaign against illegal fishing.

From July 1–10, PRO-6 units conducted 58 anti-illegal fishing operations across Western Visayas.

PRO-6 Director Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the operations were part of sustained efforts to protect marine resources and support law-abiding fishing communities.

According to PRO-6’s consolidated accomplishment report, police apprehended 98 people for alleged violations of fisheries laws.

The operations yielded fish valued at PHP 111,360 and fishing paraphernalia, including equipment and motorboats, valued at PHP 10,164,490.

Police coordinated with government agencies and local stakeholders to enforce fisheries regulations and help preserve the region’s coastal and marine ecosystems.

The Iloilo Police Provincial Office recorded the highest accomplishment, conducting 23 operations that led to the apprehension of 39 people.

The Iloilo operations resulted in the seizure of fishing equipment and motorboats valued at PHP 7,557,300.

The Antique Police Provincial Office also conducted 23 operations and recovered fishing equipment valued at PHP 755,290.

The Guimaras Police Provincial Office conducted five operations and recovered fishing-related items valued at PHP 1,286,000.

The Aklan and Capiz police provincial offices also contributed through separate enforcement operations.

Tuaño said the campaign went beyond law enforcement because it also protected the environment and the livelihoods of communities that depend on the sea.

“Ang ating laban kontra illegal fishing ay hindi lamang tungkol sa pagpapatupad ng batas. Ito ay tungkol din sa pangangalaga sa ating karagatan, pagprotekta sa kabuhayan ng ating mga mangingisda, at pagpapanatili ng yamang-dagat para sa susunod na henerasyon,” he said.

Tuaño also acknowledged the importance of community cooperation in making the campaign successful.

He urged coastal communities, fisherfolk organizations, and other stakeholders to remain active partners in protecting marine resources and promoting responsible fishing practices.

Tuaño also called on the public, particularly residents of coastal communities, to remain vigilant and immediately report activities that could threaten marine resources.

Republic Act 10654 amended the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 to strengthen measures against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.