GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Three Filipino nationals were apprehended in Indonesia after allegedly transporting 130 fighting cocks illegally from Maasim, Sarangani Province to Wori, North Sulawesi, Indonesian authorities confirmed through information relayed to Philippine officials.
The incident prompted renewed warnings from local authorities in Sarangani against illegal cross-border transport activities, particularly unauthorized sea shipments bound for Indonesia.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) – Mindanao, the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta informed them about the arrest of the three Filipinos linked to the illegal transport operation involving fighting cocks reportedly shipped from Maasim town.
The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Glan later publicized the advisory through a social media post, emphasizing the dangers and legal consequences of engaging in unauthorized international transport activities.
Authorities specifically warned residents against smuggling or illegally transporting contraband and undocumented shipments by sea to Indonesian territories, particularly North Sulawesi and North Kalimantan, areas geographically close to parts of Mindanao.
“The public is advised to strictly comply with existing laws, rules, and regulations governing international transport and shipment to avoid legal consequences, penalties, and possible imprisonment abroad,” the advisory stated.
Local officials expressed concern that some individuals continue to engage in illegal maritime transport despite strict international regulations and intensified monitoring by Philippine and Indonesian authorities.
The LGU of Glan called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities in preventing unlawful activities that could endanger the welfare and safety of Filipinos overseas.
Mayor Victor James Yap of Glan also appealed to law enforcement agencies, particularly maritime and coastal security forces, to intensify patrols and closely monitor their respective areas of responsibility to prevent similar incidents.
Authorities stressed that illegal cross-border transport operations not only violate international laws but also expose Filipinos to serious criminal charges and possible imprisonment in foreign countries.
The arrest of the three Filipinos comes amid continuing efforts by both Philippine and Indonesian authorities to crack down on illegal maritime activities in border areas between Mindanao and nearby Indonesian provinces.
As of this writing, further details regarding the identities of the arrested individuals and the charges they may face in Indonesia have yet to be disclosed.