A joint maritime law enforcement operation led to the successful apprehension of 17 illegal fishers and the seizure of a fishing banca, fish catch, and fishing paraphernalia with an estimated market value of Php 1,420,000.00 in the waters off Balesin Island, Polillo, Quezon, on 06 October 2024.

The operation was conducted by personnel from the Coast Guard Sub Station (CGSS) Polillo, in collaboration with Bantay Dagat, the PNP Maritime Group in Polillo, and Delta Company of the 1st Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army

Departing from the Port of Polillo, the team executed a seaborne patrol operation targeting illegal fishing activities in the area surrounding Lamon Bay. 

During the patrol, the Provincial Patrol Boat spotted an unmarked fishing banca using a modified Danish seine (Buli-Buli) engaged in illegal fishing activities. The team swiftly approached and boarded the vessel, with the CGSS Polillo team and Bantay Dagat Polillo serving as a blocking force to prevent escape. 

The apprehended fishing banca, painted blue and homeported in Mauban, Quezon, was skippered by Mr. Rendon Ebuenga Mendoza, accompanied by Mr. Joel Samson Caballera (Engineman), Mr. Edwin Dela Cruz (Master Fisherman), and 14 crew members. 

Upon inspection, it was confirmed that the individuals violated Sections 86 (Unauthorized Fishing) and 97 in relation to Fishing Administrative Order 246-1 of Republic Act (RA) 8550, as amended by RA 10654, known as the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998. 

The total estimated market value of the seized assets includes Php 1,120,000.00 for the fishing banca and fishing paraphernalia, and Php 300,000.00 for the confiscated 800 kilograms of assorted fish. 

Following the operation, the seized fishing boat and apprehended individuals were transported to Polillo Port for the issuance of notices of violations.

They were immediately taken to the Polillo Rural Health Unit for medical assessments before being returned to the office of the PNP Maritime Group Polillo for further investigation and documentation, in preparation for the filing of appropriate charges.