THE PHILIPPINE Navy continues its crackdown on illegal fishing, with Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao apprehending two vessels using banned “Likom-likom” nets near Maasim, Sarangani Province, on Oct. 3.
The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, through BRP Dioscoro Papa (PC381) of Naval Task Force 71, in coordination with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 12, successfully apprehended two motorized bancas (outrigger) marked “Sarah” and “Batang Quiapo,” involved in illegal fishing activities approximately 2 nautical miles from the shoreline of Barangay Colon, Maasim, Sarangani.
Lt. Commander Reynante Villela, the newly designated chief of the public affairs office of NFEM, stated that the bancas were found engaging in illegal fishing practices, in violation of Republic Act 10654, Section 93, also known as the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, which prohibits the use of fine mesh nets, commonly known as “Likom-likom.”
The confiscated items, including the motorized bancas, fishing gear, and fish catch, were valued at approximately P471,500.
Additionally, the 30 Filipino male crew members aboard the two fishing bancas were turned over to BFAR 12 for custody and the filing of appropriate charges, along with the confiscated items.
This successful operation underscores the commitment of Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao to safeguard the nation’s marine resources and enforce maritime laws in partnership with other government agencies.
Photos courtesy of NFEM
