Dolphin, whale, shark killers may be charged

CEBU, Philippines- Those will kill marine animals like dolphins, whales and sharks to support the suggestion of Dumanjug Mayor Nelson Garcia may face charges, an environmental advocate warned yesterday.

Andy Berame of the Filipino Cave Divers and Task Force Kalikasan of Lapu-Lapu City pointed out that these creatures are protected by laws. He is also a member of the Philippine National Marine Mammal Stranding Response Network (PNMMSRN).

 He cited Fisheries Administrative Order No. 208, which classifies dolphins and whales as endangered species and penalizes those who kill them with up to 12 years in prison and a fine of P120,000, “including forfeiture of the catch subject of the offense and cancellation of his fishing permit, if applicable.”

 Berame also pointed out Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which promotes the conservation and protection of wildlife species and their habitats to promote ecolo-gical balance and enhance biological diversity.

Republic Act 8550 or The Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 prohibits fishing through explosives, noxious, or poisonous substance, and/or electricity, which will kill or render unconscious fish or fishery species.

 Berame said cases in violation of these laws may be filed by conservationists, environmentalists, and even officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

 Garcia earlier lamented that the population of dolphins, whales, and sharks in Tañon Strait should be controlled and one way to do so is by killing some of them. He described dolphins, whales and sharks as “parasites” that compete with humans because they consume more than a ton of fish a day.

Garcia made his suggestion during the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape Stakeholders’ Summit in Cebu City last February 10.

Berame said he finds the word “parasites” offensive, saying it is irresponsible and unbecoming of a government official to make such suggestion when he is supposed to be among those who should take the lead in upholding the law.

“Siya na nuon nag-awhag sa mga tawo to break the law,” Berame said.

Despite massive criticism, Garcia stood by his words, adding only that he is not against the existence of the marine animals and is merely calling for regulation.

But this purported clarification from Garcia did not sit well with Gadie Bacali of the Ocean Gems Mermaid Academy.

“That’s a terrible plan and a terrible word I ever heard. I don’t think he has any right to say that,” she said, emphasizing that humans are supposed to strike a balance in coexisting with animals.

 A record holder in free diving, Bacali swam with a whale shark yesterday to protest Garcia’s pronouncements and to call for protection of marine animals.

“There is a need to educate himself (Garcia) before saying anything,” she said.

 Berame himself pointed out the need for strengthening education on the significance of protecting marine animals in the grassroots level.

FCD President Bernil Gastardo said Dumanjug officials should focus on training fishermen in sustainable fishing methods instead of putting the blame on cetaceans and sharks for their dwindling catch.

“We have to help protect the ocean. Respect marine life,” Bacali said.

Berame also advised Garcia to capitalize on eco-tourism if only to generate livelihood for residents in his town.  (FREEMAN)