ILOILO – Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), has directed all local police units in northern Iloilo to escalate their efforts against illegal fishing. Following a recent meeting with police chiefs from across the province, Razalan emphasized the need for a relentless campaign.
“Illegal fishing is a primary concern in northern Iloilo due to its destructive impact on corals and other marine resources,” said Razalan.
Echoing the urgency of the matter, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. highlighted the management of the Visayan Sea – a rich fishing ground – as a critical area of focus.
The provincial government has committed P5 million for the construction of a “resilience hub” in northern Iloilo. This facility will serve as the operational headquarters for police personnel and the Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force, enhancing their capacity to patrol and combat illegal fishing activities.
Razalan has appealed to other agencies for additional support to eradicate illegal fishing.
“Our police force is limited in terms of mobility when pursuing illegal fishers, so we are seeking assistance from other government agencies and forces,” he said.
Support has also come from the Regional Maritime Unit 6 whose director, Colonel Ervin Glenn Provido, said they would deploy their high-speed boat for patrols, with a particular focus on eliminating illegal fishing in northern Iloilo.
“Let’s collaborate to eradicate illegal fishing,” said Provido./PN
