ILOILO City – The Regional Inter-Agency Task Force against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing (RIATF-IUUF) intensified its campaign against illegal fishing in Western Visayas, leading to significant results from January to November 2024.
The task force conducted 4,627 seaborne patrol operations, which resulted in the apprehension of 555 individuals and 62 fishing vessels for violating fisheries laws.
In addition, 565 cases were filed against violators, with administrative penalties totaling P5.2 million collected.
The RIATF-IUUF comprises multiple agencies, including the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Navy, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), Regional Maritime Group, and others.
According to Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 6 director Remia Aparri, illegal fishing activities continue to exist, although a notable decline has been observed compared to previous years.
“There are still recorded apprehensions and instances of illegal fishing, but it’s no longer as rampant as before. It’s like a game of hide-and-seek; we cannot monitor the coastal waters all the time,” Aparri said.
She attributed the decline in illegal fishing to regular seaborne patrols, active involvement of local government units (LGUs), and community education on the negative impacts of illegal fishing.
“Regular patrols combined with Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns have helped minimize illegal activities. But we must continue our efforts,” Aparri added.
Recently, the task force convened to review its consolidated achievements, showcasing progress in enforcement, education, and collaborative initiatives with LGUs and international partners.
Aparri emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation and highlighted the success of an aerial Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS) operation over the Visayan Sea, conducted in partnership with the Canadian government.
“Different agencies may have varied mandates, but we all share one goal – food security,” Aparri stressed.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to strengthening patrols, adopting science-based strategies such as the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM), and encouraging community involvement./PN
