ILOILO – The Regional Inter-Agency Task Force Against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing (RIATF-IUUF) reported that a total of 551 individuals were arrested for illegal fishing across Western Visayas from January to September this year.
The task force, during its recent third quarter meeting, also said that P13.2 million worth of fish and fishing paraphernalia was seized and 218 fishing vessels were apprehended from 577 seaborne patrol operations.
This accomplishment was based on the consolidated reports of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 6, the Philippine Coast Guard District Western Visayas, the Regional Maritime Unit 6, and the Police Regional Office 6.
Additionally, the task force said 432 land-based enforcement activities were executed, resulting in the seizure of 4,039 kilograms of illegally caught fish valued at P383,590, while other paraphernalia and gears confiscated were estimated at P12.9 million.
BFAR-6 director Remia A. Aparri, who chairs the task force, commended the members’ continued efforts to uphold responsible fisheries and sustainable management practices in the region.
“Let us continue to build on our achievements as a region and FMA of many firsts, recognized for its science-based management approach, strong enforcement coordination, and unwavering commitment to both ecological and social justice,” said Aparri.
Meanwhile, Maria Aimee Sobrevega, officer-in-charge of the Fisheries Resource Management Section of BFAR Western Visayas, presented during the meeting the implementation framework and ecological importance of the Visayan Sea Closed Season under Fisheries Administrative Order No. 167-3.
She emphasized that the annual closure, which runs from November 15 to February 15, protects the spawning grounds of sardines, herrings, and mackerel, which are vital to the region’s ecosystem and the livelihoods of many coastal communities. (PIA)
