Illegal fishing

CEBU, Philippines - Local fishermen in Barangay Hilantagaan, an islet in Sta Fe, Bantayan Island, yesterday sought the help of Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia to address the illegal fishing in their place.

Barangay captain Jenor Marabi said that local fishermen are struggling to earn a living because of the rampant illegal fishing in their area.

"Mao ra gyud unta ni among panginabuhian diri, ang panagat. Tungod aning illegal fishing, nihit na kaayo among panagatan," Marabi said.

"Akong gihagit sila governor na unta masugpo na ning problemaha para makakuha na ug daghan ang atong mga mananagat," he added.

Garcia, who visited the islet yesterday to distribute rice and canned goods, promised to look into the problem. She said the provincial task force on anti-illegal fishing will be mobilized to address the problem.

Garcia said she will order the task force to coordinate with the barangay officials including the municipal officials of the northern towns.

The Governor urged the residents to report any illegal fishing activities in their place.

Fourth District Rep. Benhur Salimbangon said he has already advised the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to put in place at least two patrol boats to guard the municipal water of Sta. Fe.

Garcia also visited yesterday Barangays Kinatarcan, Langub, and Hagdan. Every household in these barangays received five kilos of rice and five canned goods from the Cebu Provincial Government.

Garcia said the budget for the goods was taken from the calamity fund.

A two-classroom school building was also inaugurated by Garcia in Hilantagaan National High School. She will also inaugurate a similar school building in the Bantayan National High School and in Barangay Patao, Bantayan today. (FREEMAN)