Rama to look for fund sources for Bantay Dagat Task Force

CEBU, Philippines - Mayor Michael Rama said yesterday he will look for remedies to address the budgetary problem of the Bantay Dagat Task Force.

Ranulfo Sebusa, executive director of the Bantay Dagat Task Force, said he had proposed a budget of P9,440,085 to purchase equipment and other needs of the office, but the City Council only approved the budget for the honorarium of the task force members.

“Mangayo lang mi og tabang ni mayor gikan sa iyang lump sum budget nga gi-approve sa City Council,” Sebusa told reporters yeterday.

Rama said he will task his cousin, Atty. Ernesto Rama, to help look for other means, perhaps assistance from the private sector. Rama said he has already signed the document designating his cousin as adviser to the Bantay Dagat Commission.

Sebusa had recommended that the city purchase a seacraft like a speed boat or a pump boat, firearms and communication equipment that would enable the task force to go after illegal fishing groups. Under his plans and programs, Sebusa also suggested that the city hire 12 more personnel for the task force and purchase a four-wheel vehicle and two motorcycles.

Sebusa also recommended that existing fish wardens composed of members of various fisher folk associations shall be required to undergo a seminar so they would be reminded of ways to implement the provisions of the fishery code.

“Most fish wardens had already forgotten application of laws on illegal fishing and they need upgrading or refreshing their knowledge,” he said.

The past few weeks, the task force focused its attention on renovating its office at the old house at the former Kawit Island, now part of the South Road Properties. – Rene U. Borromeo/JMO (THE FREEMAN)