SURIGAO CITY — Five individuals were arrested in the early hours of January 4, 2026, after authorities caught them in the act of conducting illegal fishing activities in the coastal waters of Barangay Danawan, Surigao City, police said.
Operatives of the Surigao del Norte Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA) apprehended the suspects at around 12:30 a.m. during a maritime patrol operation aimed at curbing destructive and unlawful fishing practices. The suspects were identified only by their aliases “Bern,” 44; “Del,” 30; “Ed,” 27; “Nil,” 40; and “Jun,” 37—all residents of Barangay Danawan.
Authorities said the group was found violating Section 86(b) of Republic Act No. 10654, or the amended Fisheries Code of the Philippines, which prohibits the use of illegal fishing methods that endanger marine ecosystems and deplete fish stocks.
Seized during the operation were a motorized fishing boat, two boat engines, an air compressor with hose, various diving equipment, a spear gun, and approximately six kilograms of assorted fish. The confiscated items were estimated to be worth ₱123,300.
The suspects, along with the seized evidence, were brought to the Surigao del Norte MARPSTA headquarters for documentation and proper disposition as legal proceedings are prepared against them.
The Maritime Group reiterated its warning to the public against engaging in illegal fishing, stressing that destructive practices not only violate the law but also threaten marine biodiversity and the long-term livelihood of small-scale fishermen.
Authorities assured the public that maritime patrols and enforcement operations will be intensified to protect coastal resources and uphold sustainable fishing in Surigao City and neighboring waters.