MALUSO, BASILAN — The Basilan Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA) intensified its campaign against illegal fishing and unauthorized commercial fishing activities after intercepting two small-scale commercial fishing vessels during a targeted seaborne patrol in the coastal waters of Barangay South Gaunan, Maluso, Basilan, on September 19, 2026.
The operation was conducted at approximately 8:45 a.m. by MARPSTA personnel led by PMSg Benzar L. Alawi under the direct supervision of Station Chief PMAJ Benzar M. Mukarram.
According to the police, the maritime operatives used a loaned motorized pump boat (MPB) to maneuver through shallow nearshore waters, allowing them to reach and board the target vessels during the patrol.
The operators or management of the apprehended vessels were cited for an alleged violation of Section 113 of Republic Act No. 10654, which penalizes commercial fishing vessel operators who employ unlicensed fisherfolk, fishworkers, or crew.
Following the interception, the apprehended vessels and their crew were escorted to the Basilan MARPSTA headquarters for documentation, administrative processing, and appropriate legal disposition in coordination with the designated fisheries authorities.
The enforcement action forms part of the Philippine National Police Maritime Group’s continuing efforts to curb Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF) in Philippine waters.
Authorities said intensified maritime enforcement is aimed not only at apprehending violators but also at protecting the rights and livelihood of legitimate municipal fisherfolk, particularly those who depend on coastal waters for their daily income.
The operation also highlights the role of maritime law enforcement in protecting coastal ecosystems from activities that may contribute to the depletion of fisheries resources. Unregulated and unauthorized fishing can place additional pressure on already vulnerable marine resources and affect the long-term sustainability of fishing communities.
By maintaining regular patrols in coastal and municipal waters, Basilan MARPSTA seeks to strengthen compliance with fisheries and maritime regulations while supporting efforts to protect the country’s fisheries resources and coastal environment.
The intercepted vessels remain subject to the appropriate administrative and legal proceedings, with fisheries authorities expected to determine the final disposition of the case based on the applicable laws and regulations.