Police chief to illegal fishers: Your days are almost over

CEBU, Philippines -  Lapu-Lapu City Police Chief Sr. Supt. Rey Lyndon Lawas the other day warned fishermen who are engaged in illegal fishing that their good days are almost over.

Lawas issued the warning after he received reports that illegal fishing still continued in the seawaters off Lapu-Lapu City, especially near Caubian Island and neighboring islets.

Before they will launch a massive campaign against illegal fishers, however, Lawas said they will conduct a dialog first.

According to Lawas, he directed the personnel assigned at the Task Force Kalikasan to conduct a meeting with a fishermen's group in Olango Island and neighboring islets.

Lawas said that dynamite fishing is reportedly rampant in these areas and he said he wanted the members of  Task Force Kalikasan to go against violators.

Lawas also said he has received reports that some of those engaged in illegal fishing are coming from Bohol towns. He said he will ask a meeting with the police in Bohol to discuss the problem.  (FREEMAN)