BFAR IX OPERATIVES NAB TWO COMMERCIAL VESSELS FISHING INSIDE ROXAS MUNICIPAL

WATERS

In the early morning hours of March 9, 2023, BFAR IX fishery law enforcers apprehended two
commercial scale vessels fishing in the municipal waters of Roxas, Zamboanga del Norte. The
vessels, both using ring nets, were found to be in violation of Republic Act 10654, specifically
sections 86(a) and 95.

Section 86(a) of RA 10654, otherwise known as the Amended Philippine Fisheries Code, prohibits
unauthorized fishing in municipal waters by commercial fishing vessels. Meanwhile, section 95 of
the same law proscribes the use of active gear in municipal waters, which includes the use of ring
nets.

Operatives of DA-BFAR Enforcement and Regional Monitoring, Control and Surveillance Operations
Center (ERMCSOC) Zamboanga del Norte Station, conducted the operation and discovered the
illegal fishing activities of the two vessels. The seized fishing vessels and crew were immediately
escorted to Galas Port, Dipolog City for appropriate legal action.

BFAR IX seeks to emphasize the importance of protecting municipal waters, which are crucial to the
livelihoods of small-scale fishers and the sustainability of fishery resources. It must be noted that
the government is committed to enforcing fishery laws to ensure the protection of aquatic
resources and the sustenance of artisanal fisherfolk.

The apprehension of the two vessels serves as a warning to other fishing operators who continue to
ignore fishery laws and regulations. Small-scale fishers rely on municipal waters for their
livelihood, and commercial fishing boats are mandated by law to respect these limits to ensure the
sustainability of fishery resources.

For any violations of fishery laws, concerned citizens may reach the BFAR ERMCSOC Hotline at CP
No. 0939-936-6832.

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