Measure seeking to protect sharks, rays pushed

A city ordinance aiming to protect endangered species of sharks, rays and chimaeras is being proposed by Cebu City Councilor Eduardo “Edu” Rama Jr. before the City Council.

In a press conference with Barug Team Rama councilors yesterday, Rama said this is contrary to the approved provincial ordinance banning the catching and trading of all species of sharks and rays.

“These species have a very slow reproduction. They are being fished (out) more than they can recover. Cebu has a lot to offer if only we preserve these species,” Rama said.

He said this is a welcome development for the city as there has been no existing similar ordinance approved by the council in the previous years.

He said the proposal that will preserve and protect the endangered marine animals, identified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, will not only benefit the tourism industry, but will also help balance the marine ecosystem of the city’s municipal waters.

Once approved, it will be called the “Special Protection for Sharks, Rays and Chimaeras Ordinance,” which prohibits anyone to catch, possess, kill the species or its eggs within the municipal waters of the City of Cebu.

According to the proposed measure, those who will be caught buying, distributing, or selling any species of sharks, rays and chimaeras, including their by-products shall be penalized with a fine of not less than P5000 or imprisonment of at least five years, or both at the discretion of the court.

“Anyone who has knowingly and willfully assists or incites another in committing the acts prohibited under this ordinance shall also be held liable,” it adds.

The proposal is now being referred to the City Council’s committee on environment and laws for review, said Rama.

A task force will also be formed composing the City Mayor’s Office, Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office, Cebu City Veterinary Office, and other concerned agencies of the city government to strictly enforce the regulations stipulated in the ordinance.

A city-wide information campaign on the importance of the identified endangered marine creatures will also be conducted.

“We are doing this to raise public awareness and consciousness on the vital role of these species,” said Rama.