Stronger law enforcement sought to stop illegal fishing

MANILA, Philippines – Oceana Philippines has underscored the need for science-based policies and strengthened law enforcement in curbing illegal fishing nationwide.

“Strong political leadership at the national and local levels, and vigorous collaboration with stakeholders in implementing our laws are necessary in fighting and deterring illegal fishing,” said Oceana Philippines VP Gloria Ramos.

Oceana said Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol’s approach to suspend local government units who fail to halt illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing was a welcome development for the sector.

Ramos said the DA’s move would not only protect critical marine habitats and important fishing grounds but also bring back fisheries abundance in the country.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said 10 out of the 13 major fishing grounds surveyed in the Philippines are already overfished.

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, more than 50 million Filipinos are dependent on fish for food and globally, the Philippines ranks 11th as the top producer of wild-caught fish, feeding about three billion people worldwide.

“Irresponsible fishing has reduced many wild fish populations to historically low levels right at the moment when the world needs its oceans more than ever,” Ramos said.

Meanwhile, the DA offered to provide livelihood assistance to fisherfolks who would stop illegal fishing.

Piñol earlier said the DA would launch a “shame campaign” and recommend to President Duterte the suspension of local officials who fail to stop illegal fishing in their communities.

Eduardo Gongona, BFAR national director, said the agency would match livelihood assistance efforts with the strengthening of resource management and law enforcement measures.

BFAR is set to conduct more seaborne patrol operations in the country’s fishing grounds to combat illegal fishing.

The bureau also continues to distribute fishing equipment to encourage fisherfolks to use sustainable fishing methods.