Three boats nabbed off Carles for illegal fishing

By Mariela Angella Oladive

ILOILO CITY — Three fishing boats and their crews were apprehended for alleged illegal fishing activities off Barangay Buenavista in Carles, Iloilo, on Aug. 27.

The apprehensions resulted from a joint maritime operation conducted by the Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force, 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company (2IPMFC), and Regional Intelligence Unit 6 (RIU 6).

Authorities first intercepted F/B Sister, piloted by a resident of Barangay Bancal, Carles.

The operation led to the seizure of the boat valued at PHP 150,000, fishing paraphernalia worth PHP 100,000, and a tub of anchovies valued at PHP 5,000.

A blue, unnamed fishing boat operated by a resident of Barangay Tabugon, Carles, and carrying three crew members from Barangay Tinigban was also intercepted for allegedly engaging in dynamite fishing.

Authorities recovered 5 kilograms of assorted fish valued at PHP 2,500 from the vessel.

Another green, unnamed fishing boat operated by residents of Barangay Buenavista was likewise apprehended for alleged dynamite fishing.

Five kilograms of assorted fish worth PHP 2,500, along with boat accessories, were confiscated.

The apprehended individuals were informed of the nature of their arrest and their constitutional rights under the Miranda Doctrine and Anti-Torture Law in a language they understood.

They are currently detained at the Carles Municipal Police Station custodial facility pending proper disposition.

The confiscated boats, equipment, and fishing paraphernalia remain under the custody of the Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force pending the filing of appropriate charges.

Under Republic Act No. 10654, which amended the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, catching fish through explosives, noxious or poisonous substances, or electricity is prohibited in Philippine waters.