New fisheries code to prevent illegal fishing

CEBU, Philippines - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources said that the amendments to the country’s Fisheries Code are intended to prevent illegal fishing activities.

“In fact, the amendments will benefit the fisheries sector because we ensure the elimination of destructive forms of fishing that will lead to an improved yet sustainable utilization of the fishery resources,” BFAR chief Asis Perez said.

 Commercial fishers in Luzon had resorted to a fishing holiday the other day in protest of the huge fines that range from P50,000 to P45 million imposed under the new Fisheries Code of the Philippines.

 Perez said the BFAR recognizes the sentiments of the fisherfolk and shares their interest to make sure that there is continuous growth in the fishing industry.

 BFAR, however, believes that this would only be possible if all activities that jeopardize the sustainability of the marine and aquatic resources can be prevented.

 Over the years, Perez said that their goal is to eliminate all forms of unsustainable resources as they compromise not only the environment but also the long-term livelihood and employment of around 1.8 million people who depended on fisheries resources.

 “The improvement and interventions, which we are putting in place, are necessary to help the sector move forward to sustainable fishing. These precede our commitments and regional obligations to the international community as well as global market requirements,” he said.

 But he said this will only be realized if there is law that would ensure that the resources are protected from all forms of abuse.

 “This reminds us all that this is a fight against illegal practices that threaten our fishery resources and never should it become a cause for disunity between the government and the fisheries sector. By improving the fishery’s control system, we protect the interests of the whole nation,” Perez further said.  (FREEMAN)