19/08/2026
PNP SEIZES ₱2.2-M WORTH OF ILLEGAL FISHING ITEMS, APPREHENDS 21 IN ONE DAY
The Philippine National Police, under the command of PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., intensified its enforcement of fishery laws as Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) apprehended 21 individuals in separate anti-illegal fishing operations across Leyte, Southern Leyte, and Biliran on August 16, 2026.
In Leyte, three individuals were apprehended in separate operations in the seawaters of Matalom, Isabel, and Bato. The operations resulted in the confiscation of fishing boats, spear guns, fishing nets, compressors, flashlights, and assorted illegally caught fish with a combined estimated value of ₱67,750.00.
In Southern Leyte, three individuals were apprehended in separate operations in Limasawa, Pintuyan, and Saint Bernard for violations of local fishery ordinances, including fishing without the required license and the use of unregistered boats and fishing equipment. The confiscated items had a combined estimated value of ₱14,100.00 and were placed under the custody of the concerned police stations and local authorities.
Meanwhile, in Biliran, 15 individuals were apprehended during three anti-illegal fishing operations in the territorial waters of Culaba. The operations yielded fishing boats, motor engines, fishing nets, and assorted illegally caught fish with a combined estimated value of ₱2,129,200.00, which were turned over to the appropriate authorities for proper disposition.
Overall, the one-day operations resulted in the apprehension of 21 individuals and the confiscation of fishing boats, fishing equipment, and illegally caught fish with a combined value of ₱2,211,050.00.
The operations were conducted by personnel of the concerned municipal police stations through seaborne patrols and enforcement activities, in coordination with local government units, Bantay-Dagat personnel, and municipal agriculture offices.
PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. stressed that protecting the country’s marine resources requires firm enforcement against unlawful fishing activities. “Our coastal waters are valuable public resources, and the PNP will take decisive action against those who disregard fishery laws.”
He also underscored the importance of protecting the livelihood of legitimate fisherfolk. “Pangalagaan natin ang ating karagatan dahil dito nakasalalay ang kabuhayan ng maraming mangingisda.”
The operations reflect the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations, by strengthening focused enforcement against activities that threaten coastal communities and marine resources.
As the PNP strengthens the protection of the country’s marine resources under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., it assures the public of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”
(PNP-PIO)