Photo courtesy of PNP/Facebook
Fifteen fishermen were apprehended and three motorized boats were confiscated during an anti-illegal fishing operation in municipal waters off Barangay Sta. Elena in Orion, Bataan on Feb. 28, authorities said Tuesday.
The operation was carried out by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in coordination with Bantay Dagat volunteers after fishermen were found using active fishing gear prohibited under local ordinances.
Police said the seized boats had an estimated combined value of Php 1.5 million. Illegally caught marine products were also recovered during the operation.
All confiscated items were turned over to the proper authorities for documentation and further action, according to police.
The fishermen later paid the corresponding fines at the Municipal Treasurer’s Office and were released in line with local procedures.
PNP officials said the operation was part of routine enforcement efforts aimed at regulating fishing activities within municipal waters to protect marine resources and ensure compliance with existing rules.