By Jennifer P. Rendon
Eight persons, including two minors, were arrested on Nov 3 for a string of fishing law violations in Ajuy, Iloilo.
The suspects were identified as Jhon Jhon Yu, 48, a boat captain; Eric Padios, 30, crew member; Jesmar Arcilla, 25, single operator; Jake Arcilla, 24, crew member; and Waldo Adlong, 35.
All are residents of Sitio Pasil Brgy. 6-A, Victorias City, Negros Occidental.
Lieutenant Danilo Noca, Ajuy police chief, said they also arrested Rodrigo Bermas Jr., 32, a resident of Barangay Punta Salog, Manapla, Negros Occidental; and two minors aged 16 and 13 years old.
Members of Ajuy Police Station, together with personnel from the Municipal Agriculture Office, Bantay Dagat, the Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (MFARMC) and Ajuy fish warden, caught the eight persons on board four fishing vessels – M/B 2 Sisters and M/B Jam-Jam and two trawl fishing vessels.
Noca said they could be held liable for violation of Municipal Ordinance No. 2006-28.
Among their violations include fishing in the coastal areas of Ajuy without permit; fishing using fine mesh net; and fishing using active gear.
Noca said fishermen who are from other areas must secure a permit for themselves and their vessel when fishing at the coastal waters of Ajuy.
The suspects are now at the custody of Ajuy Police Station for proper disposition of their case.
