Police, military pounce on illegal fishing in Cebu

CEBU CITY – "One-time, bigtime" operations against illegal fishing were conducted by the police and military in Cebu province over the weekend.

Seventeen individuals were arrested from Saturday to Sunday in the campaign dubbed as “Oplan Alon.”

Aside from police, personnel of the Philippine Navy, Philippine Army, Philippine Coast Guard, and Regional Maritime Unit took part in conducting seaborne patrol off the towns of Medellin, Daanbantayan and San Remigio.

"We are committed to uphold and implement environmental laws in order for the community to continuously enjoy their favorite staple and an abundant food supply," said Senior Supt. Manuel Abrugena, chief of the Cebu Provincial Police Office.

Chief Supt. Debold Sinas, director of the Police Regional OfficeCentral Visayas, personally supervised the operation.

"We have received several complaints regarding these rampant illegal fishing. This is very destructive and is affecting small-scale fishermen," said Sinas.

Two fishermen were arrested after illegal fishing equipment were found in their fishing vessels during the implementation of two search warrants, police said.

Police said 15 others were arrested for dynamites fishing and violation of municipal ordinances while fishing.

Police also seized four fishing vessels and explosives.

"We are very happy with the success of the operation. This is the first time that we conducted such operation participated by various agencies. It allowed us to strengthen our coordination," said Sinas.

Sinas explained that protecting marine life is part of the police's responsibility and more operations will be conducted in the future.

"We have to protect ordinary fishermen because when their livelihood is affected, they become susceptible to recruitment of the leftists and illegal activities," Sinas said.