By Xander Ledesma
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Central Visayas has intensified its efforts to combat illegal fishing practices, particularly dynamite fishing, in the region’s waters.
Alberto Simbajon Jr., officer-in-charge of BFAR-7’s Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance Unit, reported that while the incidence of dynamite fishing has decreased compared to previous years, it remains a concern in areas such as Bantayan Island, Cordova in Cebu, and the double barrier reef in Bohol.
To address this issue, BFAR-7 is conducting seaborne operations to apprehend violators and is strengthening its information and education campaigns to raise awareness among fisherfolk about the detrimental impact of dynamite fishing on marine ecosystems.
Simbajon emphasized that individuals caught engaging in dynamite fishing face severe penalties under Republic Act 10654, which includes substantial fines and imprisonment. He cited a recent case where a fisher from Zamboanga was fined PHP2.5 million for such an offense.
In addition to enforcement and educational initiatives, BFAR-7 is collaborating with local government units through the Bantay Dagat Task Forces to implement alternative livelihood programs. These programs aim to provide fisherfolk with sustainable income sources, reducing the incentive to engage in illegal fishing activities.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist. BFAR-7 has acknowledged a shortage of personnel to effectively police illegal fishing across the expansive Central Visayas waters. The agency continues to call for community cooperation and support from other law enforcement agencies to safeguard the region’s marine resources.