BFAR, PNP enter agreement to set up checkpoint in San Juanico Bridge

Eastern Visayas map. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

TACLOBAN CITY — The regional offices of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Eastern Visayas have entered into an agreement on Wednesday (June 7) to establish a checkpoint at the San Juanico Bridge to ensure that no illegally caught fishes and other marine resources could enter the market or brought outside the region.

Personnel of both offices will help man the “fisheries checkpoint” that is located at the Leyte side of the 2.1 kms iconic bridge connecting the islands of Leyte and Samar.

The checkpoint was aimed to make sure that all vehicles passing the San Juanico Bridge, carrying fish and other fishery products, have complied with all the safety and quality standards needed in transporting these products either for domestic consumption or for trading purposes.

The assigned enforcement teams will help prevent and apprehend illegally caught and transported marine products.

“With great optimism, we anticipate nothing short of positive outcomes resulting from the implementation of the first joint permanent fisheries checkpoint at the San Juanico Bridge. Together, let us continue to work hand in hand, progressing towards a prosperous fishing industry, safeguarded marine resources, and a thriving community,” said Hannibal Chavez, BFAR regional director.

For his part, Brigadier Gen. Vincent Calanoga, the police regional director, vowed to support the program.

“Rest assured that your police force will provide supplementary personnel and security support to BFAR-8 whenever needed. We will make sure to rally with you to fulfill your programs,” he said.

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