GENERAL SANTOS CITY (July 13, 2007) – A Philippine Navy commander has warned illegal fishermen to stop their unlawful activities following a crackdown in Celebes Sea that caught 23 fishing vessels.
The offenses include use of fine meshed nets, commercial fishing without license, employing unlicensed fish workers, expired vessel fishing certificate, safety and radio unit violations, and employment of minors.
Navy patrol boat BRP Sultan Kudarat under commanding officer Vicente Cejoco scoured Celebes Sea during a maritime patrol July 3-5.
"Ang message ko para sa lahat ng mga fishermen, nandito po ang Philippine Navy para suportahan kayo, hindi para mang-api," Cejoco said. "Kung kami nanghuhuli ng illegal, pasensiya na po kasi trabaho lang walang personalan at napag-utusan lang kami ng government agencies para hulihin ang lahat ng illegal."
Navy Commander Cejoco, whose rank is equivalent to a lieutenant colonel in the military, also warned operators of unregistered fishing vessels.
"Kasi kadalasan yong mga walang rehistro illegal ang ginagawa," Cejoco said. "Para ito sa kapakanan ng lahat."
Addressing fishermen, Cejoco added "gusto namin na 30 to 40 years from now yong mga anak at mga apo ninyo mayron pang makain pagdating ng panahon at may mahuli pang isda."
He also cautioned fishermen who use dynamites and toxic chemicals.
The apprehended fishermen and vessels were formally turned over to proper authorities for prosecution, he said.
Among the Philippine Navy's roles is to assist government agencies in protecting our marine resources and environment. (Sarangani Information Office)
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