Capitol’s security consultant quits

CEBU, Philippines - The Capitol’s peace and order consultant and head of the Cebu Provincial Anti-Illegal Fishing Task Force has tendered his resignation effective next month.

Retired Navy captain Romeo Tapayan submitted his resignation Friday to Governor Hilario Davide III, citing health reason. Despite Tapayan’s resignation, Davide assured that the campaign against illegal fishing remains in place.

Tapayan, 67, has served the provincial government for almost three years. He was designated by Vice Governor Agnes Magpale during her stint as acting governor to head the province’s anti-illegal fishing unit.

“Pagod na rin ako. I’ve tried my best. But I’m old already,” Tapayan told The FREEMAN over the phone.

In a separate interview, Davide said he accepted Tapayan’s resignation which takes effect on February 28.

“I thanked him for his experiences… I told him nga I believe there was no more need pud for a consultant on peace and order (because) we are coordinating closely with the police,” Davide added.

He, however, made it clear that the anti-illegal fishing operations will automatically be undertaken by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, which is the umbrella office of CPAIFTF.

Tapayan said he is hoping that the governor will choose somebody who has more experience and expertise to head the task force.

“Kailangan maingat because some illegal and commercial fishers have high-powered firearms. There should be close coordination with the Philippine Navy and Maritime,” he said.

He urged the local government units to help enforce the fisheries law in their jurisdiction and protect the local fisherfolk.

“It’s their (LGUs’) duty. The provincial government is only there to help. The Capitol has only limited resources,” Tapayan said.

Tapayan used to work with former Capitol security chief Loy Anthony Madrigal, who was also team leader of the province’s illegal fishing task force.

One of the major operations of Madrigal yielded a truckload of shark meat in June last year. The shark meat believed to be used as ingredient for fish food like tempura.

Madrigal resigned three months after that operation following the issues hurled against him, one of which was his alleged illicit affair with his married secretary. The secretary also submitted her resignation. (FREEMAN)