ILOILO – A motorboat illegally operating inside a protected no-fishing zone in Batad town was intercepted and seized, exposing yet another case of destructive “siklob” fishing that authorities say is harming Iloilo’s already pressured coastal ecosystems.
The 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company’s Bantay Dagat Task Force caught the vessel F/B VIRGO around 10:30 p.m. of Dec. 8 while conducting a routine seaborne patrol off Barangay Salvador.
Police Major John Salvador Bello’s team flagged down the boat after observing activity inside a restricted area — an offense prohibited under local ordinances meant to safeguard marine life and spawning grounds.
The lone operator, a resident of Barangay Binun-an, was found using “siklob,” a banned method notorious for its destructive impact on marine habitats and depletion of fish stocks. Evidence recovered on board — including nets and traps — confirmed the illegal activity, prompting the immediate detention of the vessel and impoundment of its paraphernalia.
Provincial police director Colonel Bayani Razalan denounced the incident, saying it underscores the ongoing threat illegal fishers pose to both the environment and compliant coastal communities.
“We are unwavering in our resolve to protect our marine resources, which are vital not only for ecological balance but also for the economic sustenance of our communities. The apprehension of F/B VIRGO underscores our dedication to enforcing regulations that ensure sustainable fishing,” Razalan said.
Authorities warned that illegal fishing continues to jeopardize the livelihoods of law-abiding fishermen and vowed more aggressive patrols, enforcement, and community awareness campaigns across Iloilo’s coastal municipalities. The Bantay Dagat Task Force will also assess the broader ecological impact of such operations as part of strengthened monitoring efforts.
The Iloilo Police Provincial Office urged residents to report suspicious fishing activities, emphasizing that community involvement is critical to preserving coastal resources for future generations./PN
