Coast Guard nets illegal fishermen in Masbate

Members of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have apprehended three people for illegal fishing in Masbate, the PCG disclosed on Monday.

The Masbate Coast Guard identified the three as Jorge Liquiron, Malijana Tomas, and Degracia Hermino.  They were reportedly using a “fine mesh net,” locally known as a “Ziipper” during their fishing activities.

The suspects were arrested during an inspection in the waters of San Fernando (Ticao Island), Claveria, and San Pascual (Burias Island) Masbate on Friday, April 27.

They were apprehended aboard their respective vessels, namely: FB Jurna, FB Mary Femen, and FB Bernie.

“The aforementioned fishing boats were apprehended together with its respective boat captains and crew members and informed them of the nature of their offense committed under Republic Act 8550 as amended by Republic Act 10654 as well as their constitutional rights,” PCG said in a statement.

The safety certificates of the fishing boats were expired, the PCG said. The owners have also failed to present a boat captain license and marine diesel mechanic license during the inspection.

“The apprehended fishing boats, boat captains and crew members were escorted to Masbate City for proper documentation and filing of appropriate changes,” PCG added. /cbb