By Mariela Angella Oladive
Two individuals were apprehended by the Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force for engaging in illegal fishing in the coastal waters of Concepcion, Iloilo on April 11, 2025.
The suspects, both residents of Sitio Magalumbi, Barangay Tanao in Batad, Iloilo, were caught operating separate vessels using hulbot-hulbot or Danish Seine fishing — a method banned under the Philippine Fisheries Code due to its destructive impact on marine ecosystems.
Authorities confiscated various boat equipment, fishing gear, and 11 kilograms of assorted fish valued at approximately PHP6,300.
The suspects face charges for violating Republic Act 10654, which amended the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998.
The seized catch will be turned over to a government penal hospital and charitable institution, in line with official disposal protocols for confiscated goods.
The task force reiterated its commitment to protecting coastal resources and enforcing fisheries regulations across the province.
