GASAN, Marinduque – Authorities apprehended three individuals and confiscated over P 1 million worth of illegal fishing equipment during a joint maritime operation in Gasan, Marinduque on Friday, January 24.
In a statement, the Philippine Coast Guard confirmed that the operation was conducted to monitor and curb illegal fishing activities in the area. During the operation, law enforcement intercepted the fishing banca Princess Aquarius, which was being used by the suspects for unauthorized fishing.
Confiscated during the operation were critical pieces of equipment, including a fishing banca valued at P500,000, a diesel engine worth P200,000, fishing nets estimated at P300,000 and approximately 10 kilograms of fish worth P1,000.
The suspects, residents of Brgy. Daykitin, Buenavista, were found in violation of Section 6B of Republic Act No. 10654, also known as the “Act to Prevent, Deter, and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing.”
The arrested individuals, along with the seized equipment, have been turned over to Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA)-Gasan for documentation and further legal action.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing maritime laws to protect the region’s marine resources and ensure sustainable fishing practices. — Marinduquenews.com