ILOILO City — The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) arrested 378 individuals and seized P31.44 million worth of fishing boats, gear, and fish during a month-long crackdown on illegal fishing across Western Visayas.
Records from PRO-6 showed that from July 1 to 31, police conducted 219 maritime operations across the region.
Of the P31.44 million total value of seized items, P31.02 million accounted for impounded fishing boats and paraphernalia, while P422,660 represented confiscated fish catches.
The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) recorded the highest value of seizures and arrests, collaring 141 fishermen and impounding P18.22 million worth of boats and equipment. Meanwhile, the Antique Police Provincial Office conducted the most operations, carrying out 82 raids that resulted in 101 arrests.
One notable operation was executed in Sitio Baligiuan, Barangay Malangabang, Concepcion, Iloilo. Joint elements of the 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company–Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force and Regional Intelligence Unit 6 arrested five individuals caught trawl fishing. Five motorboats were also impounded.
PRO-6 director Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño said the accomplishments demonstrate the regional police force’s firm commitment to eradicating illegal fishing in Western Visayas waters.
“Ang bawat operasyon laban sa iligal na pangingisda ay hindi lamang pagpapatupad ng batas kundi pagprotekta rin sa ating yamang-dagat at sa kabuhayan ng mga mangingisdang sumusunod sa batas,” said Tuaño. “Patuloy nating pananagutin ang mga lumalabag upang mapangalagaan ang ating likas na yaman para sa susunod na henerasyon.”
He also urged the local government units and the public to maintain active cooperation with law enforcement in the campaign against illegal fishing./PN
