PINAMALAYAN, Oriental Mindoro — Three fishermen were arrested Monday night (Jan. 6, 2024) for illegal fishing off the coast of Barangay Pili, authorities reported.

Maritime patrol officers, known locally as Bantay Dagat, apprehended the suspects at approximately 10:30 p.m. while they were allegedly using illegal fine nets from their motorboat, according to Police Lieutenant Colonel Joel Paningbatan, acting chief of police of Pinamalayan Municipal Police Station.

The arrest falls under Republic Act 10654, which amended the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998.

The said law specifically prohibits the use of fine mesh nets, which can damage marine ecosystems by catching juvenile fish and other marine life.

The suspects were taken to the Pinamalayan police station, where authorities are preparing to file charges through inquest proceedings.

Bantay Dagat is a volunteer maritime patrol organization that works with local government units to protect Philippine waters from illegal fishing activities. The organization plays a crucial role in enforcing maritime laws in the country’s coastal areas, particularly in island provinces like Mindoro where fishing is a major source of livelihood.