By Benjamin Cuaresma
A weeklong police crackdown on illegal fishing in Bicol yielded P4.54 million worth of confiscated evidence and the arrest of 53 suspects, authorities said Monday.
The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) carried out 16 operations across the region from Aug. 17 to 23, targeting illegal fishing activities that threaten marine resources and the livelihood of legitimate fishermen.
Masbate accounted for the biggest haul, with its Police Provincial Office reporting P3.8 million worth of confiscated items.
It was followed by the Camarines Sur PPO with P334,300, Catanduanes PPO with P200,000, Sorsogon PPO with P61,150, and Camarines Norte PPO with P50,600.
PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda said illegal fishing was not only an environmental threat but also a direct blow to fishermen who depend on healthy and productive waters for their livelihood.
“Through sustained law enforcement operations and close coordination with partner agencies and local communities, the PNP (Philippine National Police) remains committed to ensuring that the region’s aquatic resources are protected for present and future generations,” Miranda said.
Miranda stressed that police operations must remain continuous and proactive, particularly in coastal areas where marine resources are vital to community livelihoods, public safety and the local economy.
He said the Philippine National Police would continue coordinating with partner agencies and coastal communities to suppress illegal fishing and safeguard Bicol’s marine resources.
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