The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 11 has declared the start of the closed fishing season for Davao Gulf starting June 1.
The ban is typically handed down each year to increase the survival rate of fishes during the spawning period. This year, the closed fishing season will last until Aug. 31, 2019.
As part of the directive, the BFAR XI prohibits commercial fishing of small pelagic fishes, locally known as karabalyas, galunggong, and matang baka, among others in Davao Gulf. However, the agency will allow small fishermen to go fishing for sustenance as long as they refrain from using prohibited gears such as fishing gears and equipment.
Violators will face a fine of P20,000 or three times the value of the catch, whichever is the higher in relation to provisions of RA 10654 amending RA 8550 for municipal fishing.
For commercial fishing, the penalties imposed will range from P100,000 to P500,000 or five times the value of the catch, whichever is the higher. Offenders also face imprisonment of six months to one day up to six years.
The BFAR established the technical working group of Davao Gulf closed season that will serve as a core management group for the policy directions and monitoring of the area.
The agency’s Fishery Management and Regulatory Enforcement Division – EIC section will continuously conduct series of information and awareness campaign to remind public of the closed fishing season. BFAR 11 also enjoined the cooperation of everyone for the protection and conservation of Davao Gulf.
