The joint elements of the Iloilo Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force (IPBDTF), Second Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company, and Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU) 6 apprehended a fishing vessel engaged in illegal Danish Seine fishing (hulbot-hulbot) off the waters of Barangay Lantangan, Carles on August 1, 2026.
The boat captain, John Alberto Pasaporte Jr., 42 years old, of Barangay Botongon, Estancia, together with his 15 crew members, were intercepted during the operation.
The IPBDTF impounded the fishing boat and its gear for violation of Section 97 of Republic Act 10654 (An Act to Eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing) in relation to Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) 246-1, which prohibits the operation of Danish Seines and Modified Danish Seines in Philippine waters.
Pasaporte was detained at the Carles Municipal Police Station, while his crew members were released from custody as they are not covered by the penal provisions of Section 97 of RA 10654 in relation to FAO 246-1.
The accomplishment is part of the Iloilo Provincial Government’s relentless campaign against illegal fishing under the directive of Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr.
#MoRProGResIloilo