NegOcc officials back BFAR fishing ban on Visayan Sea
BACOLOD CITY -- Negros Occidental Governor Isidro Zayco is in support of the efforts of Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in implementing the 'four-month ban' on sardines, herring and mackerels in most of the Visayan Sea.
Zayco said although he is not in the position to speak much on the 'ban', he presumes that the main purpose of doing so is for the protection of said fish species so that the future generation can also benefit from the abundance of the Visayan Sea.
Meanwhile, Bacolod Sanggunian Panglungsod will pass a resolution today in their regular session supporting the endeavor of BFAR.
Councilor Alex Paglumotan, chairman of the Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries said it is a welcome development in conserving and preserving fish species as well as marine resources as it experience massive depletion due to overfishing.
Although it has an effect to marginal fisherfolks in the city but it is only temporary because the major purpose of banning is for general welfare.
BFAR Western Visayas Director Drusila Bayate said they implemented the ban annually since 1989 under BFAR Administrative Order 167 in protection of the Visayan Sea, one of the richest fishing grounds in the country.
"Killing and catching of the sardines, herrings and mackerels which covers mature fish, their larvae, fry or young are prohibited within the 'closed season'. Selling, buying and having possession of the three fish species are also illegal,” the order stated.
Violations of the prohibition are punishable with a fine of P500 to P5,000 or an imprisonment of six months to four years or both.
More than half of the 10,000-square meter Visayan Sea will be covered by the ban mostly in Northern Negros and Northern Iloilo and along municipal waters.
The 'closed season' according to Bayate has already started on November 15 and will last until March 15 next year.