At 10:00 am yesterday, watchful eye of PCG crew onboard MCS 3009 spotted cluster of pump boat along the Coast of Tictauan Island, suspecting illegal use of explosive, said vessel immediately veered towards their direction resulting to abrupt dispersal of their boats. Ocular inspection of the site revealed voluminous dead anchovy or “dilis” scattered in the bottom due to the impact of explosion.  

At around 11:30 that morning, MCS 3009 together with 2 members of BFAR-IX caught an 8.27 GT F/B Yolanda in actual fishing using modified Danish Seine or “Hulbot-Hulbot”in the municipal waters of said city. Arrested were boat captain Rogelio A. Mareos along with 13 unlicensed crew members onboard.

The apprehended vessel was escorted to impounding area in Sangali as they will be charged with violation under section 86, 97 and 121 of R.A. 10654.

R.A. 10654, the law that amended Philippine Fisheries Code prohibits the use of “Hulbot Hulbot” and other fishing gears destructing coral reefs and other marine habitats. The law further requires that all fishing operators to secure permit from their respective BFAR offices and local government units (LGU’s). Crew members are required as well by law to secure license otherwise they may be charged with until 6 months to 2 years imprisonment when caught performing Hulbot-Hulbot.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) together with Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources join forces in strengthening campaign against illegal fishing. Currently there are three (3) BFAR-MCS Vessels operated by PCG personnel to ensure that such illegal fishing practices will be prevented in Region-IX and ARMM area. MCS 3009 is skippered by CDR Gines with 25 coast guard personnel, and is complemented with BFAR QRT whenever they are on patrol.