ILOILO – A man was arrested for illegal fishing yesterday morning in the municipal waters of Concepcion, Iloilo.
The 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company (IPMFC), in coordination with the Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force, conducted a seaborne patrol around 10:20 a.m. in Barangay Nipa where they intercepted a fishing boat engaged in unauthorized fishing methods.
The vessel, F/B Five Kids, was operated by alias “Mau,” a 40-year-old married resident of the town’s Barangay Aglosong. Authorities caught him using a compressor, a method prohibited due to its harmful effects on marine ecosystems and potential risk to human life.
All confiscated items, including the boat and fishing gear, are currently in the custody of the Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force.
Under Municipal Ordinance Section 11.06, Series of 2022, illegal fishing practices such as compressor use are strictly prohibited. The seized assets may only be released upon payment of the prescribed compromise fine as set by the local government.
Following the arrest, authorities reiterated their commitment to enforcing coastal protection laws and warned that intensified patrols will continue to safeguard marine resources in Concepcion and nearby areas./PN
