W. Visayas Cops Nab 147, Seize P13.4M in Anti-Illegal Fishing Drive

ILOILO CITY — Police in Western Visayas have arrested 147 individuals and confiscated more than P13.47 million worth of illegal fishing equipment, boats, and fish products during an intensified campaign against illegal fishing from July 1 to 15. The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) said the 15-day operation covered 80 maritime law enforcement missions aimed at curbing destructive fishing practices and protecting the region’s marine resources. Authorities seized items with a total estimated value of P13,472,750. Most of the confiscated assets consisted of fishing gear, motorboats, and fishing vessels worth P13,313,040, while illegally caught fish products valued at P159,710 were also recovered. The Iloilo Police Provincial Office recorded the highest number of operations and seizures, conducting 29 operations that led to the arrest of 51 individuals and the confiscation of about P9.36 million worth of illegal fishing gear and fish products. The Capiz Police Provincial Office carried out nine operations, arresting 35 individuals and recovering items worth about P1.617 million. In Guimaras, police conducted six operations, resulting in the arrest of 15 suspects and the seizure of assets valued at more than P1.33 million. The remaining operations were carried out by the Aklan and Antique police provincial offices, together with PRO6 maritime units, which maintained a heightened presence across the region’s coastal waters. PRO6 said the campaign’s success was strengthened by close coordination with the Bantay Dagat Task Force, local government units, and other partner agencies, allowing authorities to improve maritime monitoring and quickly apprehend violators. Police said the intensified operations are intended not only to enforce fisheries laws but also to deter destructive fishing practices, protect coastal ecosystems, safeguard food security, and preserve the livelihoods of legitimate fisherfolk across Western Visayas. /jpv