ILOILO – Iloilo’s intensified campaign against illegal fishing and grassroots efforts to protect its marine resources have earned national recognition, with three fisheries champions from the province honored by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
The Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force, a community fisheries advocate from Concepcion, and the Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (MFARMC) of Ajuy town received national awards during the closing ceremony of the 63rd Fish Conservation Week in Quezon City on Sept. 18.
The recognitions highlighted efforts ranging from aggressive enforcement against destructive and illegal fishing to community-based conservation and sustainable fisheries management.
The Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force, overseen and managed by Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, received the Gawad Pagkilala sa Kabalikat ng Pangisdaan at Yamang Tubig under the Institutional Category.
The award recognized the task force’s campaign against illegal fishing activities in the province’s coastal waters, particularly in northern Iloilo.
Its operations have targeted Danish seine fishing, locally known as “hulbot-hulbot,” as well as illegal ring-net fishing, dynamite fishing and other prohibited practices, resulting in numerous apprehensions and the confiscation of fishing vessels and equipment.
The task force has also partnered with national agencies such as BFAR in conducting seaborne patrols, particularly during the closed season in the Visayan Sea.
Its operations help safeguard Iloilo’s coastal waters and marine ecosystems, strengthen fisheries law enforcement and promote responsible fishing practices.
Police Chief Master Sergeant Ariel Palmera, the task force team leader, and Atty. Caleb Josh Biclar received the recognition on behalf of the Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force.
Meanwhile, Helen R. Balajadia of Barangay Tambaliza, Concepcion received the Gawad Pagkilala sa Kabalikat ng Pangisdaan at Yamang Tubig under the Individual Category.
Balajadia was recognized for her partnership, leadership and dedication to the conservation and sustainable development of local fisheries through transformative community projects.
The Ajuy MFARMC, represented by council chairman and Iloilo provincial fisherfolk leader Joni Valladarez, received the Gawad Pasasalamat Para sa mga Mangingisda at Mangingisdang Asosasyon.
The award recognized the council’s contributions and service in recommending relevant policies and promoting sustainable fisheries management.
BFAR National Director Elizer S. Salilig personally presented the three national awards.
The awardees later presented their honors to Gov. Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr. at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.
Defensor committed to providing full support to the Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force to further strengthen its capability and make its maritime enforcement operations more efficient and effective.
The governor also thanked Balajadia and Valladarez for their leadership and contributions to the preservation, conservation and protection of marine ecosystems.
Banias said the national recognition of the three Iloilo awardees reflects the province’s continuing commitment to protecting its coastal and marine resources while strengthening the livelihood and welfare of fisherfolk.
“Their achievements also underscore the importance of collaboration among fisherfolk organizations, local government units, fisheries stakeholders, and national government agencies in ensuring the sustainable management of the country’s fisheries resources,” Banias said.
Banias said the recognition should also inspire fisheries stakeholders to remain steadfast in protecting the country’s seas and aquatic resources and in building resilient and sustainable fishing communities for future generations./PN
