Boat owner denies illegal fishing; Coast Guard claims legit operation

CEBU, Philippines — The owner of the fishing boat whose crew member reportedly died claimed they are not engaged in illegal fishing as the Philippine Coast Guard-Central Visayas also claimed their operation was a legitimate one.

Alejandro “Jojo” Lim, Jr., owner of the fishing boat, Four-K or 4K, said charges of homicide will be filed today against SN1 Jason Depadua and SN2 Christian Almorade for the death of Rolex Casibo of Medellin town.

PCG-CV Commander Alvin Dagalea said that his men did not shoot anyone.

Lim said that around 8 p.m. of March 26, 2021, the crew of the fishing vessel was approached by the said coastguard personnel on allegation of illegal fishing near Malapascua Island in Daanbantayan.

On board the fishing vessel were the 19 crew including the boat captain.

Dagalea said that his men were acting on a complaint that a fishing boat was engaged in illegal fishing which prompted the two coast guard personnel to go to the vicinity on board a jetski.

“Sa dagat man gi aim ang shots that serves as a warning kay tumakas man sila. That was a legit operation,” said Dagalea adding that this matter is still under investigation.

Dagalea said that when the fishing boat crew was confronted about the alleged illegal activity, the latter immediately removed their fishing net from the sea wherein the fishing ground is near a marine sanctuary.

Dagalea also said that he has no knowledge yet as to the report that some of the shots were seen within the fishing boat.

Lim said that he has been in the fishing business for 20 years and he has all the documents as proof that he is a legitimate businessman and he is into a legal business.

Lim showed to The Freeman the boat’s Certificate of Philippine Registry from the Maritime Industry Authority 7 which was issued on August 20, 2019 and valid until August 26, 2024.

The Commercial Fishing Vessel License of the said fishing boat was issued on October 9, 2019 and valid until October 8, 2022 issued by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 7.

“Wala mi nag-engaged og illegal fishing,” said Lim.

The 31-year old deceased crew left behind his wife and four children ages seven, four and two months old twins. —  GMR (FREEMAN)